I really hope this race exceeds my expectations, Unfortunately Valencia always seems to be a procession of a race which is punctuated by a safety car or two. The setting of the circuit is very nice and all that, it has its bridge as a gimmick but in terms of racing its usually one of the most dull of the season.

This year some teams have brought their new Red Bull style exhaust systems which may shake up the timings a little but at the end of the day barring a mistake i expect any overtaking to be done in the pits.

Ferrari, Mercedes and Renault all have new exhaust systems this weekend which may give them all a boost in the positions. but i still firmly expect Red Bull to be the team to beat, they have had this exhaust since the beginning of the season and the other teams will no doubt have some kinks to iron out.

Personally as a British F1 fan i am hoping for another British winner but as long as the rest of the season is competitive then i will be happy. Mclaren reckon the new system is worth about half a second a lap and if that is true they may struggle to be at the sharp end this weekend. I don't fully buy what they are saying and i don't think the other teams will be that far ahead of Mclaren. It is a lot of smoke and mirrors downplaying expectations and trying to lull other teams into a false sense of security.Especially as this circuit is quite suited to the Mclaren as well.

I will have to watch this in 2 parts as i will be heading to the pub about half way through to watch England V Germany so no-one tell me the result please!!

By Steve Jarvis

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