2012 Formula 1 mid-season overview

Mid-season tests have returned to Formula 1 after a gap of four years - and boy is it at the right time! There have hardly been any major changes in the regulations over last year and it has certainly helped the rest catch-up and even better the rampaging bulls. The first four races of the season have seen four different winners from four different teams and frankly, though we are loyal to a certain team we don’t want to see too many changes in the way things have shaped up this season.

The mid-season tests are important as they help teams hasten the process on in-season upgrades – and it has never been as vital, as the teams are desperate for that tiny bit of advantage. Both McLaren and Mercedes have shown their abilities on the long fast straights, while Renault powered Red Bull and Lotus dominated through relatively low-speed circuit of Bahrain. Even lackluster Ferrari managed to hold-on when things went their way - and same is the case with other mid-field teams who can very easily pull a one-off that might negate the advantage of rest of the grid.

It is fun that, even after four races there are no clear cut winners, not even outright favorites and this is set to be the most thrilling season in years. Here is OnCars perspective on each team and their progress after the four races of the season and the Mugello tests.

Also, we won’t be discussing the detailed timings from the mid-season tests as they don’t reflect the actual performance of the cars.