McLaren aren’t expecting any massive changes to the pecking order next season, with sporting director Sam Michael admitting he fully expects McLaren, Red Bull and Ferrari to be setting the pace.
His outfit won seven races in 2012, matched only by champions Red Bull, whilst Ferrari took three, Mercedes, Williams and Lotus one apiece.
The static technical regulations mean many teams will be further developing their current cars over the off-season which will likely result in a closing up of the grid, but nothing “massive” according to Michael.
“They [the midfield] will close up a little bit. I don’t think there’ll be any massive shake-up on the grid though,” he said.
“We’ll be in the normal situation at the front with McLaren, Ferrari and Red Bull. Then the rest of them I can’t predict.”
The 41-year-old is however cautious of Lotus and says Mercedes and Force India could come back stronger.
“The great thing about Formula 1 is that someone could always go out and do a stonking car, have a good driver in there and be part of the action,” he added.
“You’ve got to say Lotus are looking very good. You’ve got to expect Force India to return strong next year. And Mercedes, of course.”
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