Formula 1’s Managing Director of Motorsports Ross Brawn says he expects Ferrari to fight back in the wake of Mercedes’ dominant Spanish Grand Prix victory.
Ferrari claimed back-to-back wins to open the 2018 season and was in a position to contend for victories at the following two events, but ultimately missed out.
Ferrari entered the Spanish Grand Prix atop the standings but Mercedes dominated the weekend, locking out the front-row of the grid before romping to a 1-2 finish.
Sebastian Vettel came home only fourth, after a second pit stop due to concerns over tyre wear, while Kimi Raikkonen retired amid engine issues.
Brawn, though, expects Ferrari to mount a stern fightback, starting in Monaco, where the team was supreme 12 months ago.
“For the first time this season, Mercedes was the dominant force from start to finish over the weekend,” said Brawn.
“Barcelona was its second win of the year, but it was a far more commanding performance than the one in Baku.
“[Lewis] Hamilton and [Valtteri] Bottas showed a flash of what we had seen in qualifying in Melbourne, namely their and the car's full potential.
“Hamilton in particular had a weekend in which he was untouchable, especially in the race
“Is it a turning point, after Ferrari seemed to be the fastest team over the first four races?
“It's not that clear cut, because I expect that the Scuderia will fight back in Monaco, as will Red Bull, who were competitive in Spain, but not enough to fight for pole or the win.”
Brawn added: “For the first time this year, Ferrari really showed a drop in form.
“In all four previous races, the Italian team was always in the fight for pole, taking three out of the four, and for the win, which suggested the SF71H was the best car.
“Next up comes the Monaco Grand Prix and I expect to see Ferrari back on the pace there, capable of winning.”
