It all started on the 26th February 2017, it was a sunny evening at the Circuit de Catalunya when the car was unveiled to the world in their stunning new colours. We start the season with our two returning drivers, Danill Kvyat and Carlos Sainz, only one of three teams to retain the same lineup as the previous year.
During winter testing in Spain, the team notched up 584 laps (2718km), with Sainz setting a 1.19.837 and Kvyat setting a 1.20.416. Let’s forget about the times, as none of the teams were pushing 100%. During the test, we saw a problem with the ERS system of all the Renault engined cars which heavily restricted the mileage from the boys. We know Renault will be working hard to fix the problem in time for the Australian GP.
Talking about the Australian GP, Toro Rosso is one of the midfield teams and if Renault can fix its problems with the engine, they could become the best midfield team. As any team, they will want a strong first race.
As always there is big pressure on the two drivers with Pierre Gasly waiting in the wings for a seat either at Toro Rosso or Red Bull both drivers will have to be at the top of their game right from the off as too many mistakes can cost you your seat as we saw last year.
Otherwise, I predict a great year for the team and drivers:
Sainz finishing 10th in the driver’s championship
Kvyat finishing 13th in the driver’s championship
Toro Rosso finishing 5th in the constructor’s championship
Richard Hindson
Image Courtesy of PitSpy