Posted on 29th June 2013
We can expect fast single lap or low fuel runs in preparation for Qualifying, the FP3 session will be a busy one. The battle for pole position starts at 1pm, it’ll be a tough fight but some of the people I have spoken to expect Rosberg to take pole quite easily. I don’t think it will be quite so easy, one can never count out the Red Bulls.
Mercedes hope for a good race this weekend and their aim will to have a good race as well. Race pace for the silver arrows has not been a strong point this season, but they are hoping that updates to the car will help. Today’s qualifying session will be critical for them if they want to remain near the front in tomorrow’s race.
My eyes today will be on Williams after they confirmed that they have brought significant aero upgrades. Their qualifying performance this season hasn’t been great, the only exception was in Canada with Bottas. As they celebrate their 600th Grand Prix, a good performance would be great way to celebrate. It will be fascinating to watch.
McLaren will also hope for a strong Qualifying session at their home Grand Prix. Jenson Button is also hopeful, but the balance yesterday didn’t seem on top form, Perez much more committed through the faster corners. Todays low fuel runs in FP3 will be very interesting indeed. As ever there is lots of support for Jenson this weekend.
Another team to watch out for today is of course Ferrari, and particularly Fernando Alonso. The Ferrari breakfast was great this morning, I just hope their race performance can match. They are a team in need of some extra pace particularly in qualifying, I’m looking forward to see if those new developments can deliver what’s required. As for Felipe Massa, keeping it out of the wall is a priority. He needs to perform very well from now on, Ferrari are in danger of falling further behind the Red Bulls.
Today will be very interesting indeed, I’m looking forward to it immensely. I’ll be track side in FP3 so if you have any questions, tweet me @TomWilkinsonF1.
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