Former Ferrari driver warns Scuderia about Red Bull Honda's competitiveness

The Ferrari might be looking stronger after the winter test in Barcelona, but former Scuderia racer Jean Alesi believes the Italians will struggle during 2019. Alesi insists the RB15 will be much more competitive because of Red Bull's new relationship with Honda.

"The new Red Bull Honda will be very competitive. I also think that Renault has achieved some good things with Ricciardo and that Kimi and Antonio can perform well with Alfa Romeo. Of course, Mercedes will also be strong, but Ferrari seems to be a bit stronger than at the beginning of last season," Alesi tells Radio Sportiva.

"Let's not forget that Mercedes actually drove two totally different cars in Barcelona. That is usually not a good sign since the original plan did not deliver what was on paper. Ferrari, on the other hand, built on the fast car and can, therefore, continue to develop quietly."

It's been all change at Ferrari during the winter. Mattia Binoto comes in as their new technical director, while Charles Leclerc moves over and offers up a different driver perspective. Alesi is confident Leclerc will play second fiddle to the more experienced Sebastian Vettel.

"I have no doubt that Vettel is preferred and Leclerc plays second violin. But still, I think it will be very exciting between the two. The plan seems to me that Vettel must be first and Leclerc just second, but who knows. The season is long with 21 races! Vettel has at least everything to grab the title, so let's see what happens in Melbourne," he added.