2016 Track Preview; German Grand Prix, Hockenheim

As we head to Hockenheim for the German Grand Prix this weekend for the tenth race of the 2016 season just a week after the Hungarian Grand Prix, Pirelli have selected the hardest Pirelli tyres which are the White Medium, Yellow Soft and Red Supersoft P Zero tyres.

But going back to Hockenheim isn't exactly like visiting a new circuit this weekend as the German track is an established venue. However,this year that is almost the case, as the last time an F1 race was held there was in 2014 and it'll be the first time F1 visits the circuit since the first season of the new hybrid era.

As a result, we can expect lap times that are considerably quicker than they were two years ago, with a consequent increased demand on tyres. The Hockenheim circuit has a bit of everything, with fast straights as well as a more technical stadium section. There's a very smooth track surface in Hockenheim, which helps to limit wear and degradation.

I should point out that it will be very important to look after the rear tyres, as there is lots of acceleration out of slow corners. As well as traction, braking is another key aspect: tyres are subject to maximum deceleration. For example, Turn 5 puts a lot of energy through the tyres: a fast left-hander taken almost as a straight line.

But the weather is hard to predict: on Saturday in 2014 ambient temperatures peaked at 38 degrees and this could spice up the race on Sunday. I should remind you that the day after the German GP, testing of tyres in 2017 size starts with Ferrari at Fiorano, with the rest of the paddock beginning a two-week factory shutdown.

Here's my facts and figures as well as my predictions heading into the German Grand Prix this weekend.

Facts and Figures

•Germany has hosted the Grand Prix since 1926, even though the first Formula One race in Hockenheim was in 1970 and now alternates every year with the Nurburgring.

•Michael Schumacher is the most successful driver to win the Grand Prix with four wins.

•Fernando Alonso are the most successful driver currently to win the Grand Prix with three wins.

•Ferrari is the most successful constructors to win the Grand Prix with twenty two wins.

•Race distance: 306.442 km (190.414 miles)
•Number of turns:16
•Top speed: 300kph
•Lap record: Kimi Raikkonen- McLaren (2004)- 1.13.708

Last five winners of the German Grand Prix

•2010-Fernando Alonso
•2011-Lewis Hamilton
•2012-Fernando Alonso
•2013- Sebastian Vettel
•2014- Nico Rosberg

My five things to look out for this weekend:-

1.Return of the German GP- After a two year absence, the German GP is back and we are so glad it has returned after two years of confusion. But with the circuit sorting out its financial issues, we are looking forward to seeing if Hockenheim can produce a great comeback race this weekend and seeing F1 back where it belongs!

2.Tyre performance-With Pirelli bringing a relatively normal tyre choices to Hockenheim, all eyes will be upon Pirelli to see if the tyres will spice up the action at the track this weekend. But it will be interesting to see how that affects tyre usage and strategy during the race especially given the fact that the circuit has been resurfaced. Will this impact anyone's race on Sunday as a result?

3.Weather- As I have already mentioned, the weather could play a part in the development of the race weekend, especially the race on Sunday. But with epic past races such as the 200o German Grand Prix (first one that spring to mind!) Question is, will the weather be a key factor in the winner of the race on Sunday?

4.Performance of the Mercedes team- With Mercedes being the firm favourites heading into the race this weekend, all eyes will be upon them to see if they will still be as competitive as they were last season, especially Lewis Hamilton at his home race. But with Ferrari showing good performance and pace in the first few races, has their advantage and stranglehold on the sport been broken?

5.Performance of Nico Rosberg, Sebastian Vettel, Pascal Wehrlein and Nico Hulkenberg- With four German drivers on the grid this season, they will want to ensure that they have the best weekend possible at their home race and give their fans something to cheer about especially given what has happened in Munich recently and Driving for Pleasure's thoughts go out to everyone who has been affected by this tragedy.

Sky Sports F1 are showing uninterrupted coverage of every Practice session, Qualifying and race for the Grand Prix (and every race of the season) and Channel 4 also are showing coverage, details for both are below:-

•*Sky Sports F1*:- Friday (Practice 1 and 2) 8.45am and 12.45pm [Replays throughout Thursday and Friday], Saturday (Practice 3 and Qualifying) 9.45am and 12.00pm [Replays throughout Saturday], Sunday (Race) 11.30am

•*Channel 4*- Saturday (Qualifying highlights) 5.45pm, Sunday (Race Highlights) 6.00pm

Sarah Jones- @jonesy_laaa