Mercedes set to keep up momentum in Barcelona

It is expected that Formula 1's current dominant force will pick up where it left off as it sets up shop in Barcelona this week. But Mercedes' technical director Paddy Lowe will also watch with interest what rival teams will have drafted during the three week break since Bahrain.

"The first European race is traditionally seen as the first major upgrade point of the season," commented Lowe in the team's official preview. In practice, recent years have seen car upgrades become more of a constant and relentless campaign throughout the year. We may see a little more than usual after the three-week gap, however, so it will be interesting to see what each team brings to the table."

When it comes to the Spanish Grand Prix venue, teams will enjoy a level playing field in Barcelona on a track typically devoted to winter F1 testing as Low reminded.

"Barcelona is one of the most demanding circuits on the calendar, testing both chassis and power unit, and it’s often said that if you’re quick here, you’ll be quick anywhere. We looked strong during winter testing – but time has passed, teams will have developed their cars significantly in the subsequent weeks and we’ll now see much warmer temperatures, so we don’t know how we’ll look until we get there. That’s part of the excitement of Formula One!"

In any case, it will be somewhat of a fresh start next weekend as F1 embarks on a European leg of the championship interrupted only by the hop across the Atlantic to Canada.

"It feels like a long but well-needed break since Bahrain, having barely had more than a week’s gap between events since the pre-season programme began. This has given us time to reflect, regroup and pick up on what we’ve learned in the first part of the year."

Click here for a look at the radical Honda power unit design

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.

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