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Ferrari is now within an uncomfortable striking distance of Mercedes' dominance, according to Niki Lauda. "I see clearly that Ferrari is catching us with great strides," the F1 legend and Mercedes team chairman told the German broadcaster RTL. "I suspect they have moved to within two, three tenths of us. That's a dangerously small lead now."
Mercedes has utterly dominated the 'power unit' era so far and many expect a third consecutive installation in 2016, but Lauda thinks the gap is now close to insignificant. "The slightest mistake from us regarding strategy or tyres and that two-three tenths is quickly gone," he said.
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Sebastian Vettel, the lead Ferrari driver, would seem to agree, declaring in his last European interview before addressing the media in Melbourne that the only goal for 2016 is the title. "I see it very positively that the expectations are high," he told Sport Bild. "My goal is very clearly to be world champion and to win races. Anything else is for me not good enough."
As for whether Ferrari really has closed the gap on Mercedes, Vettel warned: "That question can only be answered halfway seriously after a few races. But as a driver you always have to believe in yourself and your chances." (GMM)
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C. Sainz jr
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Replies (4)
Login to replycalle.itw
Posts: 8,527
At times Im not sure whether Mercedes are sincere about this or if they are just making fun out of Ferrari and the rest. In any case, I hope Ferrari are much closer this year. Im not saying the last 2 seasons were boring, I dont think they were, but it'd be nice with another year like 2012, that year was intense.
mclarenfan1968
Posts: 1,027
They are just saying things to put any thoughts engine equalization or rules changes to close the gap, put to to rest. They are self serving spoilsports after all no honest and noble deeds can be expected of them.
ruestchiva
Posts: 20
I'm pretty sure Mercedes is being exagerated about this. They are creating speculation so that people feel better about their utter dominance. This year will be the same shit as previous with first places being occupied by Mercedes from the beginning to the end.
mclarenfan1968
Posts: 1,027
Damn right, it is pathetic the way they say this with such confidence, no shame whatsoever. Bet this calls for a thorough extra investigation into their cars, confident liars have far more to hide, dodgy specs and blatant violations of the rules is not out of the question when it comes to such types.