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Kovalainen Tips Red Bull for 2011 Glory

Red Bull have not been too friendly with the timing reports in recent test days – except for the first day of group tests in Valencia, they hardly challenged for the top position in the charts – yet they are seen by Heikki Kovalainen as top contenders for the F1 title in 2011.

According to the Finnish driver, the Austrian team is keeping its true pace hidden from the rest of the competitors, but the world will see how the real title contenders will look like during the season opening round in Bahrain.

They seem to have everything under control. It is my feeling that they have not yet shown even half of their full ability,” the Team Lotus driver was quoted as saying by the Turun Sanomat.

Based on his personal feelings during the recent group tests in Valencia and Jerez, Kovalainen shared a few insights on the other title contenders in 2011. Referring to Ferrari, the Finn said the Scuderia will definitely have a say in the outcome of the championship, while noting that “Williams also did a very good laptime in Jerez.”

With McLaren it's still difficult to say,” he added, referring to his former employer. “They came a bit late to the tests and they have had some problems, but at least their car is good looking, it may well be fast.

His most intriguing prediction was based on body language though, as he sensed that the way Mercedes GP's employees and drivers are acting inside the paddock shows some true disappointments in regards to their 2011 racer.

The body language I have seen tells me that they are disappointed with the car's performance,” added Kovalainen, referring to Michael Schumacher and Nico Rosberg. The latter actually criticized (slightly) the Mercedes W02 prior to the Jerez test last weekend.
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