Andy Stevenson: The balance of power changes on every track

      On the eve of the Bahrain Grand Prix, Aston Martin Sports Director Andy Stevenson described the challenges ahead for the team's engineers and drivers at the Sahir circuit and tried to assess the balance of power.

      Andy Stevenson: "One of the main factors to consider in Bahrain is the track surface. It is quite abrasive, so we usually see severe degradation of the rubber, which opens up opportunities for various strategy options. Lance Stroll and Fernando Alonso will have to monitor tire wear throughout the weekend.

      On this track, it is necessary to optimize the car as much as possible in order to gain a speed advantage. The teams have been playing in Bahrain for many years, so we all know what to expect and what approach to follow. This is not the situation at all when we arrive at a new track, and the uncertainty factor can give us an advantage over our rivals.

      I believe that this weekend we need to focus on preparing for the race and optimize the car settings in order to be able to compete.

      At the early stage of the season, we see that the fight in the middle of the peloton is extremely tight, but we expected it. Depending on the type of highway we arrive at, the balance of power varies somewhat. That is why, after the first races of the season, it is not obvious who is in which positions in the middle of the peloton.

      It's an exciting situation for fans who watch the races at home, but it's very difficult for us to determine where we stand. That is why strategy and the choice of settings are as important as possible in order to have a chance to earn points.

      We are probably not far from the point of the season when the teams will start bringing major updates, which will further enhance the momentum."