It's been a long winter break for some, and a tight schedule for others. Nevertheless, it's go time. The new season gets underway as the busy bees arrive in Jerez for the first round of a series of pre-season testing.
After a series of launches kicked off last week, it's time to relocate. Spain will host three rounds of testing: one in Jerez and the rest in Barcelona at the Circuit of Catalunya. Most of the teams have already arrived at the scene, and are making final preparations for Tuesday's green light. Mercedes, Toro Rosso, Caterham and Marussia will launch their cars in Jerez, while Williams opted to skip the party and debut in Barcelona instead.
Another big news that hit the media last week was that Fernando Alonso will be skipping the first round of testing. Newly recruited Pedro de la Rosa will take his place as the Spaniard decided to focus on physical preparation for the new season. Alonso will drive the new Ferrari for the first time in Barcelona.
All eyes will surely be on Lewis Hamilton and Sergio Perez during these tests. The two drivers have swapped teams this season, with Hamilton moving to Mercedes and Checo to McLaren. Both drivers will surely need time to adjust to new conditions and the new cars. The world will also be watching the newcomers this season: Esteban Gutierrez for Sauber, Giedo van der Garde for Caterham and Max Chilton for Marussia.
Force India and Marussia are yet to announce their second drivers. Announcements are imminent and we might find out who's driving where before the pits open on Tuesday.
Pre-season testing
1st Test - Jerez, February 5-8
2nd Test - Barcelona, February 19-22
3rd Test - Barcelona, February 28-March 3
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