Mercedes hard to beat in 2016 too - Ecclestone

Bernie Ecclestone thinks Mercedes is set for a third consecutive year of dominating formula one in 2016.

Asked by Canadian radio TSN if the German team, having monopolised the titles in the new ’power unit’ era, can be challenged this year, the F1 supremo said: "I wish I could say yes but I can’t.

"I think the bottom line is they are a very good team, the engine is certainly better than anyone else and they’ve got obviously one of the best drivers. So it’s going to be difficult for anyone to beat them," said Ecclestone.

The 85-year-old has been a fierce and consistent critic of the current engine regulations, arguing that the situation has given the top manufacturers but particularly Mercedes the ability to control the sport.

"Mercedes supply four (actually three) of these power units to the smaller teams and obviously they supply them with a lot less power than they have in their own cars. So you’ve got rid of four teams," he said.

"So all we’ve got really and truly is Mercedes and Ferrari - I hope - racing each other," Ecclestone added.