Is Mercedes shielding an issue with its engine?

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Mercedes W08 may have an engine reliability issue which the team purposefully concealed in Barcelona last week during pre-season testing.

The claim comes from well-known Italian insider Leo Turrini, a man close to Ferrari.

"It seems to me that in Barcelona the Mercedes had a reliability problem linked to the crankshaft," Turrini wrote on his blog.

"It's nothing serious, but Hamilton and Bottas were never able to push hard."

Red Bull wary of Ferrari self-confidence

After two weeks in Barcelona and despite leaving Spain at the top of the timesheet, Ferrari still believes that Mercedes retains its advantage while the German outfit is underlining the Scuderia's impressive performance.

"It is certain that Mercedes will fix the problem before Melbourne, but Ferrari knows the story and that is why Ferrari believes the Silver Arrow is still ahead," Turrini added.

Only a proper race weekend will bring some clarity to the pecking order. We will get that next week, finally!

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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.