Berger: Mercedes still has the upper hand over Ferrari

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Gerhard Berger believes its early days still, with no compelling reason to declare Ferrari the favourite to win the 2017 title.

A ten-time Grand Prix winner who enjoyed a double stint with Ferrari from 1987 to 1989 and the again from 1993 to 1995, Berger feels that Mercedes still has the upper hand over the Scuderia despite Italian squad's win in Melbourne.

"After just one race on a city circuit such as Melbourne, it's always difficult to assess the pecking order properly," he told Austrian broadcaster Servus TV.

"What I say is that we have to wait three races to get a clearer picture," Berger added.

"But for me it is clear that Ferrari has made a big leap forward, which surprised me.

"I currently see Mercedes ahead in qualifying, and maybe less in the race. But this was more to do with circumstances. I believe Mercedes has maintained a lead.

"But of course, as fans we all hope that the top three teams will all be together, and then we will watch a great world championship."

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Berger also took a dig at Lewis Hamilton who claimed recently that Sebastian Vettel was a much tougher opponent than retired world champion and former team mate Nico Rosberg.

"I'm sorry, but what Lewis said is of course nonsense," said Berger.

"In Formula 1 there are a number of drivers like Ricciardo, Verstappen and Rosberg who are all at the top, top level. It's not just about Lewis and Sebastian," he said.

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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.