#wintertesting

Finally some Formula One action is back. Even though it is just testing and the times don't count for much, it is great to get a feel for which teams may be competitive this year and also to see the livery and designs of the cars on track. 

My stand out team so far:

Mercedes - Although they never topped the time sheets there was nothing to say they won't be the team to beat again this year. And as they concentrated on mileage it showed an increased reliability of which was their main problem last season.  

Surprise Package: 

Ferrari - The Prancing Horse set the quickest time of the week in the hands of Kimi Raikkonen on Day Four and seemed an instant hit with both its drivers. The reliability and quick times, especially Sebastian's lap on Day Two on the medium compound caused Mercedes to look over their shoulder and for Niki Lauda to reportedly say they would be their closest Championship Rivals this season.

Tough Test:

McLaren - Although it was to be expected that the new Honda engine would not be perfect from day one, McLaren had a tough time in testing as they only completed under 70 laps, 50% of the laps they had targeted for. The future too could be a struggle as they are a year behind everyone else's regulation change woes. However, they can think back to Red Bull's winter testing last season and have a glimmer of hope after they miraculously turned their car into a 3 time race winner - although this will be hard to repeat for the MP4-30.