The German Grand Prix weekend continues to get ever hotter and as the cars were released from overnight parc ferme at 8.30 this morning, the temperature was already well into the twenties.

While this might be good news for some of the F1 personnel who are looking forward to a few days holiday as we head for the first three week break in the race calendar, it is not so pleasant for the teams preparing for this afternoon’s 67 laps of the Hockenheimring.
Engines, brakes, electronics and especially tyres will all be pushed to the limit as the temperature rises and reliability will be even more important than usual.

The weather might also have an impact on race strategy: traditionally a two stop race, tyre performance might well dictate an extra refuelling stop for some competitors.

In the Scuderia Ferrari Marlboro camp, everything is calm as the team carries out the minimal amount of work allowed on the race cars.