Hamilton fired up for Spa
Nico Rosberg is charging out of the summer break determined to fire everything at his Mercedes teammate Lewis Hamilton.
And the German is bursting back into action for this weekend’s Belgian grand prix with some comments that might be interpreted as a psychological jab at Hamilton’s lifestyle.
Last year’s strategy and how the race was won: Daniel Ricciardo won his second consecutive race for Red Bull (the third victory of his career) using a two-stop strategy for the 44-lap race from fifth on the grid.
Arai told AUTOSPORT his company’s existing engine was “much better than Renault” during the most recent race in Hungary, and that the upgraded version will take it closer to Ferrari’s output. Spa is a favourite for all drivers.
Hamilton, who ended the previous race badly, was seen having a blast in the streets of Barbados, partying, cigar-smoking and an allegedly new kindled romance with pop star Rihanna. It could make more weaving, who knows?
“They might need to make changes to it. It is a good idea, though”, Hamilton said.
The F1’s coolest racer will have to adjust if he wants to claim another Drivers’ Championship.
Like Infiniti Red Bull Racing, McLaren have also exceeded their permissible number of engines – 4 – this season.
But Wolff, mindful of Hamilton and Rosberg finishing sixth and eighth last time out in Hungary, and their first-lap collision at Spa-Francorchamps 12 months ago, insists neither title race is a foregone conclusion.
Vettel carried a lot of speed into the breaking zone of the right hander, and as Hamilton defended on the inside Vettel had a look around the outside but missed his breaking point.
But his impressive drive in Hungary leaves him feeling optimistic of a strong performance on one of his favored tracks.
“Spa is a truly spectacular circuit, arguably the best on the calendar for many, but given the unique power and downforce package required the track won’t play to our strengths”, said Boullier. A proper old-school Grand Prix for the real racing enthusiast. “It’s a great circuit and I think it brings out the true fans and that’s quite special”. “Only drawback is that it’ll be 30 degrees C with blue skies one minute and hosing down the next”. But unpredictable weather means one part of the track can be dry and another soaking wet, making tire choice hard.