Spain 2017

Was the 2017 Spanish Grand Prix the most exciting race of the Formula 1 season to date? Well, yes, say the Pitpass team of Chris Balfe, Max Noble and Mat Coch, but that's hardly anything to shout about. The battle between Lewis Hamilton and Sebastian Vettel was enthralling, on that they agree, and that made for a welcome change following the snoozefest that was the Russian Grand Prix. However what Spain didn't provide the team with was a clear indication of the new pecking order. There was an abundance of updates up and down pit lane, but just how much influence did they have on the pecking order? One thing that's clear is that Red Bull remains the clear third best team, though Force India is punching well above its weight - as we've come to expect - and could mount a challenge to Red Bull if it's not careful. Force India's secret has been its driver combination, suggests Noble and Balfe, a strength not all of its midfield rivals can boast. Indeed there is a smattering of lopsided lineups out there, and the Pitpass team highlights two that need an urgent reversal in fortunes, for failing that a firm hand from management. It's what's missing at Mercedes, suggests Balfe and Coch, after news that Hamilton has been racing without a drinks bottle in 2017 to save weight. Having come across the team radio with the sort of voice you normally pay for by the minute, the post-race revelation prompted some fairly serious discussion among the Pitpass ranks. As did news of Silverstone's uncertain future. Of course we've been here before, so much so it feels like we never left, all the while the future of the British Grand Prix hangs by a thread with Formula 1's new owners unwilling - or is it unable - to throw the BRDC a bone.

You can listen to Spain 2017 online on Radio and Podcast. Open the player on this page to stream the available audio.

Spain 2017 is an episode from Pitpass.com by Mat Coch.

This episode is 45:04 long.

This episode was published on May 17, 2017.

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