The layout is classic Tilke, long straights followed by a series of sharp corners, chicanes and hairpins. The long back straight definitely creates overtaking opportunities and it is important to have reasonable straight-line speed to prevent this happening.

This means teams err on the side of less drag, which correspondingly means less downforce. Teams with higher aero efficiency or with better mechanical grip through the slower corners will be quicker. Some teams may elect to run slightly higher downforce allowing them to come out of the stadium complex a little quicker and perhaps catch a slipstream on the start-finish straight. That said there are no high speed corners that demand great aero performance. These trade-offs should create an exciting spectacle for fans.

As Hockenheim isn't a strong aero circuit and relies more on mechanical grip out of the slow corners, suspension set up tends to be on the soft side. The rear end will be slightly softer to retain stability under breaking and to give better traction coming out of the slower corners.

Hockenheimring is one of the toughest circuits on the brakes. Cooling can be an issue, especially in hot weather, which means brake ducts will be larger and exert an corresponding drag penalty. The cool conditions forecast this year should help brake engineers. These days brake failure is rare — although recall Montreal where the Renaults in particular struggled with hard-wearing brakes.

On a sultry, hot weekend, the burden on the engine can be tough. Around 62% of the circuit is full throttle — a tad lower than Silverstone but definitely towards the higher end. The trick is really to get maximum torque in the low speed range to allow for quick acceleration out of the low speed corners. Failure to exit quickly will leave drivers open to being overtaken as they pound down the straights.

Finally tyre wear is quite intense, mostly due to the heavy braking. McLaren is harder on the tyres than Ferrari is and this may determine the outcome, especially if it is cool. The theory is that McLaren can get heat into their tyres more quickly, which gives them an edge in qualifying. But that also means they have to run a shorter first stint to avoid extreme tyre degradation. If the McLarens get on the front row but can't pull away, Ferrari could swoop past for the victory. Like at Silverstone, Bridgestone will provide the hard and medium compounds.

It should be a good race, and as usual another two team battle at the front. McLaren looked strong in testing last week and probably head into the weekend as marginal favourites. Who knows though?