[LotusLover]

All teams have same tyres agreed BUT it has swung a favourable way ro some teams AHEM. Probably bollocks but its a wee bit odd

[Jody Barton]

Forza, the blistering happened week 2 in testing, when the sun was out, and it was very, very bad. Pirelli had to do something, I know the conspiracy theorists will have a field day, but it would have been dangerous.

The 2018 tyres are a step softer compound, but thicker tread than previous Pirelli tyres and I think that's part of the issue. I have to say... I wouldn't be surprised to see the tread depth lowered in Spa, Suzuka and maybe, just maybe Monza. All three tracks are low abbrassive surfaces, which could very well lead to blistering on the thicker tread tyres. We'll see, but Pirelli Will need to let the FIA know by the end of June for Spa and Monza, but they have a bit more time for Suzuka.

[forzaferrari]

Forza, the blistering happened week 2 in testing, when the sun was out, and it was very, very bad. Pirelli had to do something, I know the conspiracy theorists will have a field day, but it would have been dangerous.

The 2018 tyres are a step softer compound, but thicker tread than previous Pirelli tyres and I think that's part of the issue. I have to say... I wouldn't be surprised to see the tread depth lowered in Spa, Suzuka and maybe, just maybe Monza. All three tracks are low abbrassive surfaces, which could very well lead to blistering on the thicker tread tyres. We'll see, but Pirelli Will need to let the FIA know by the end of June for Spa and Monza, but they have a bit more time for Suzuka.

I dont disagree just quoting Toto, Pirelli had initally wanted to go with a step harder compound for this race then decided to do what they had done in previous year....reduce tread like  the tyre used today, perhaps its just coincidence it brought the Merc alive.  Makes no difference to me, just want to see good close racing which we clearly didnt get as expected from this track.

[morini]

perhaps its just coincidence it brought the Merc alive. 

Did it though? Really? Or is it possible Mercedes with their massive resources can work out their own problems?

Anyone can see the Ferrari works across the widest range of conditions / variables, but when the Mercedes is in its own window it is a bloody fast car. I find it fascinating - add in the fact that Mercedes have traditionally weak tracks and we are in for a rollercoaster ride.

[Jody Barton]

Personally Morini I think the tyres may have helped Mercedes out here in Spain, but I think the ambient temperatures probably helped them way more. I tell you what will be interesting is seeing how they go in Monaco and Canada. I suspect if the temperatures are right for them, they might actually qualify quite well in Monaco, there change of direction in Spain in S3 was almost as good as RBR, also S2 in Melbourne which actually has similar characteristics to S1 and S3 in Monaco Mercedes were also mighty. Then we're in the land of maple syrup and a track Lewis and Mercedes normally love. If they're in the groove there (no funky tyres) I think we can say Mercedes are getting on top of their car, but until then I think they will be trying to remain cautiously optimistic. Could be a fascinating couple of races coming up.

[morini]

Jody, I might eat my hat but I don't think Mercedes will be in the running at Monaco. Damage limitation exercise at best I reckon. Canada, on the other hand, they might not have the very best car this year (depending on development in between now and then) but Hamilton is a specialist round there and I wouldn't bet against him if you put the guy in a lada.

[Jody Barton]

Morini, I expect the Red Bull boys to lock out the front row, barring any shenanigans. However, I think it'll prove nip and tuck behind them between the Ferrari's and Mercedes cars. We'll see obviously. Do we know the tyre selection yet for Monaco? I'll be in Finland for FP1 and EP2 for an interview, so I'll bloomin' miss it all. Still, looking forward to qualifying on Saturday and then going out for a drink on Sunday at the beach here in Malmö and not worry about the race at all.