In a new feature for 2014, TheJudge13 will look into Formula One odds from bookmakers analysing what the odds would suggest.  We would invite readers to get involved and tell us if you think they are a fair reflection of what is set to be an amazing season ahead of us.

Last time out

Nico wasn’t happy about the “aggressiveness” of Lewis on lap 18, as the man from Stevenage held off a late attack from his teammate taking his second victory of the season.  The Mercedes were forced to show their true pace for the first time; to say the least it was quick.  Some laps were 3 seconds quicker than the rest of the field, although they were being held back by Sergio Perez at the time.

The Force Indias came to the fore, as McLaren were forced into a double retirement in the desert.  The Woking team clearly have some work to do as they look to catch the other Mercedes powertrained cars, while Daniel Ricciardo goes from strength to strength in his Red Bull.  We learnt a lot from Bahrain, so whether this will be repeated in China only time will tell.

Looking ahead

Another weekend with much rain predicted on the forecasts.  Good news for anyone who has a high down force package, but lacking power from their relevant units.  The difficult first turn will challenge even the most experienced drivers on the grid, as Lewis Hamilton will go in search of his third win at the circuit.  Also a favourite of Nico Roseberg after he took his first win there back in 2012 in a dominant display.  A similar dominant display from the Mercedes will be expected this time round.

A surprise package this weekend could be the Toro Rosso team who have the advantage of the sister team’s support with the Renault powertrain software help aiding their push to move up the World Constructors Championship.

Much of the attention of the weekend will be placed on Ferrari following the departure of Stefano Domenicali.  Can Kimi Raikkonen and Fernando Alonso change the fortunes of the prancing horse?

Hot to trot

Daniil Kvyat points finish – 2/1 – After a strong showing in the first race in Melbourne, the young Russian has continued in a confident nature allowing him to challenge up and down the grid.  Can he once again score in his Toro Rosso?

Daniel Ricciardo podium finish – 7/2 –Some corners of the media questioned how the Australian would handle the pressure of driving alongside the four time World Champion and whether he would be outshone by Vettel.  The answer is there for all to see, with Ricciardo proving he worth his salt at Red Bull. He seems a long price for a podium finish in Shanghai this weekend!

Sergio Perez top 6 finish – 10/11 –There is no denying it; a happy Checo is a quick Checo.  Clearly confident in the Force India team after his nightmare of a season in 2013 he endured at McLaren, can the Mexican build on his podium in Bahrain with another strong showing in China?

A punt on a grunt

A look at a more speculative market – Lewis Hamilton or Nico Rosberg to take pole, fastest lap and race win – 5/2 and 8/1 – in the most dominant car by a country mile can either of the Silver Arrows score a hat-trick in Shanghai?
Another weekend of surprises in store or business as usual in China?  A great weekend awaits Formula One fans…

TJ13 only suggests responsible gambling.  For advice on the subject visit www.gambleaware.co.uk/‎     From all the team – enjoy the race!