So some big changes coming for 2017.
Development:
Engines-Teams will no longer use development tokens for engines. Teams will be allowed 4 different engines during the year. This could allow some of the 2nd and 3rd tier teams to make some drastic changes to their engine programs mid-season. Its anybody's guess what happens. Renault and Ferrari are excited about their engine programs, Mercedes can only get better. I anticipate more engine failures as significant design changes are expected among manufacturers.
Aero/Tires- Wider tires and less aero grip coming for 2017. I anticipate RB to handle these the best. These guys are aero masters, but who knows how hard Merc was actually pushing in 2016. Maybe they had more speed in the tank. No need to show your hand when you're the class of the field. Its anticipated cars will become more aero reliant which won't help passing(some dispute this).
Open Seat: This is still a big unknown, despite the rumors. Lots of competent drivers out there. It will be interesting if it is a 1 year contract or something more substantial. Some big talents will be coming available in 2018 and signing a long-term contract may not make sense for Merc.
Merica-What will come of the American team? Glad to see Gutierrez out of there, unimpressive season from him. I wonder what power unit Ferrari will provide to them. I think they ran a 2015 Ferrari engine in 2016 (could be mistaken). Its just too young of a team to try and predict off-season improvements.
What do you think will happen?
Development:
Engines-Teams will no longer use development tokens for engines. Teams will be allowed 4 different engines during the year. This could allow some of the 2nd and 3rd tier teams to make some drastic changes to their engine programs mid-season. Its anybody's guess what happens. Renault and Ferrari are excited about their engine programs, Mercedes can only get better. I anticipate more engine failures as significant design changes are expected among manufacturers.
Aero/Tires- Wider tires and less aero grip coming for 2017. I anticipate RB to handle these the best. These guys are aero masters, but who knows how hard Merc was actually pushing in 2016. Maybe they had more speed in the tank. No need to show your hand when you're the class of the field. Its anticipated cars will become more aero reliant which won't help passing(some dispute this).
Open Seat: This is still a big unknown, despite the rumors. Lots of competent drivers out there. It will be interesting if it is a 1 year contract or something more substantial. Some big talents will be coming available in 2018 and signing a long-term contract may not make sense for Merc.
Merica-What will come of the American team? Glad to see Gutierrez out of there, unimpressive season from him. I wonder what power unit Ferrari will provide to them. I think they ran a 2015 Ferrari engine in 2016 (could be mistaken). Its just too young of a team to try and predict off-season improvements.
What do you think will happen?
