godlameroso wrote:I don't know, last year's pole was a 1:45.6, and fastest race lap was a 1:50.4, with heavy fuel load that they're able to do 51's means that fastest race lap should be comfortably in the 49's, and that's with the track being a bit slower than last year, so I expect pole to be roughly the same, maybe dipping into the low 45's high 44's. The key is definitely going to be around tire wear, a three stop seems to be the best strategy with three super soft stints, and a final stint on softs. However the probability of a safety car is pretty large around here, so we could definitely see some people finish out of position especially between the two and three stoppers.
As far as pace goes, Mercedes are not usually beaten on Friday, I think this is the first time this season where they haven't been comfortably ahead. I'm sure they have more in the bag, but so does everyone else, as team usually find another second or so with an optimized package.
Indeed, but as I said, Mercedes usually find more time than the other teams. It was very tight last year and this year will be no different.
. Red Bull must be already protesting such practices with Ecclestone, or not since it's not about them and they created this system. Why wouldn't they run their B spec car?
, no it is most certainly a case of the 10+ traction zones here limiting them. Your engine doesn't give you higher degradation than your rivals.
