2014 Canadian Grand Prix – The grid: Mercedes in front, Red Bull and Williams on the hunt

After the qualifying session that took place on Saturday, which you can read about in the summary on Motorsinside.com, the editorial team offers you a recap of the starting grid

Only one penalty to report, that of Kamui Kobayashi who received a 5-place penalty for changing his gearbox. Also noteworthy is Esteban Gutiérrez starting from the pit lane.

Les pneus

It should be hot today in Montreal, which could put the soft (yellow sidewall) and super-soft (red sidewall) tires to the test on the asphalt of the Gilles Villeneuve circuit, even though there are few turns. According to Pirelli, a one-stop strategy remains possible, with most drivers expected to make between one and two stops, but this could depend on potential interventions by the safety car.

The forces at play

At the front line, nothing new, Mercedes once again monopolizes the front row of the starting grid, with Rosberg ahead of Hamilton. The victory will very likely be once again contested between the two Silver Arrows drivers.

However, they will need to be wary of the Williams – which have the same power unit – and the Red Bull, which will try not to fall too far behind on the long straights of the Canadian circuit. As for the rest of the top 10, the battle should be between Ferrari – not very comfortable in Canada -, McLaren, Toro Rosso, Lotus, and Force India.