Mercedes are assuming they will be beaten by Ferrari in 2016

Despite dominating Formula 1 for the past two seasons, Mercedes F1 engine guru Andy Cowell reveals that no one in the tam is taking anything for granted ahead of the new season and admits that they are expecting a big challenge from Ferrari.

“If we look at what Ferrari has done over the last twelve months, it is remarkable,” said Cowell. “Their improvements have been a huge credit to their reshuffle and their enthusiasm.”

“Everybody here is going: I wonder how we are going to do? Nobody here is assuming we're going to win, everybody here is assuming that we’re going to get beaten by Ferrari, and that Honda are a big threat.”

“They have come in quickly and they are learning in front of the public, but they are hugely determined and partnered with McLaren who are hugely determined. We know exactly how McLaren work in terms of a data-driven approach, so they are going to make some big, big gains,” predicts Cowell.

“Renault’s determination as well, as they’ve shown by being a lot more involved now in Formula 1, instead of just being a power unit provider there has been a team restructuring. There are going to be some great stories to talk about,” the Mercedes engine chief.

In 2015 Ferrari and Sebastian Vettel won three races, while Mercedes duo Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg bagged 16 grand prix victories with Hamilton claiming the drivers' world title and the team claiming the constructors' championship.