Red Bull and Mercedes run ahead of Ferrari: 'Tall order'

Martin Brundle expects Red Bull Racing and Mercedes to look with satisfaction at the situation at Ferrari. The Italian formation decided at the end of the year to replace Mattia Binotto for Frederic Vasseur and that could just have a big effect on upcoming season, according to Brundle.

"If I was Mercedes or Red Bull right now, I'd be smiling because continuity is everything," concluded the Briton in conversation with Sky Sports. "As Formula 1 seasons get longer and more intense, you have to be careful of these sea changes of personnel."

According to Brundle, a clear difference can be seen between Ferrari and the competition. "Mercedes have got real continuity, as have Red Bull in key personnel. Fred Vasseur has got to go in and find his way, get established, understand, and it's a tall order. It doesn't matter who you are, it's going to take time."

This calendar year, Ferrari managed to get off to a strong start. It provided Charles Leclerc with a clear lead over the other drivers, creating an advantage for himself. Brundle does not expect this to happen next race year.

While Vasseur will want to bend his new team to his will in the first months of the new year, Mercedes seems ready to have a renewed fight with Red Bull. "I do see Mercedes bringing the fight to Ferrari and Red Bull next season," he said. This season, Mercedes fell short of second place in the constructors' championship.