2 Where the race will be won
Tyre management, of course. If the first four races taught us anything it is
that the ability to get in the right operating window tyre-wise is
essential.
Tyre wear will be high here with the long corners at turns three and four.
Last year there were four pit stops in Barcelona and I can foresee a similarly
high number this term.
Track position will also be important as you don’t want to be stuck up
someone’s exhaust pipe going around those long bends as that stresses the
tyres even more. For that reason I think we may see teams setting up with
more of a focus on qualifying than elsewhere.
3 Sub-plots
The tyre debate is all well and good but I think those complaining sometimes
forget that Formula One is about entertainment.
At the moment, with four different winners in the first four races and tonnes
of overtaking, the fans are being royally entertained. Speaking of which, it
feels great to be back in Europe.
I was out in Barcelona yesterday checking out the old grand prix track at
Montjuic and it was a treat; stunning views, a vibrant atmosphere and real
race fans.
There is a fantastic feeling in the paddock. No one knows quite how the season
will pan out and that is just fine.
Cicruit de Catalunya
Laps: 66
Circuit Length: 4.655km
2011 winner: Vettel (Red Bull)
GP details
Saturday: Qualifying 2pm local time (1pm BST)
Sunday: Race 2pm local time (1pm BST)
Television
Qualifying Sky Sports F1 HD and BBC1
Race 2Sky Sports F1 HD and BBC1
Weather
Today 25C, sunny
Tomorrow 21C, possible showers