Formula 1 returns this weekend with the Spanish Grand Prix following a two week break. McLaren Honda fans have several things to look forward to including what are said to be substantial power unit upgrades and a new livery. Even though the team made marked progress through the first four grands prix, their start to the season has been poor by any historical measure. Hopes are that the upgrades will finally allow Honda to run their power unit at [or near] full power. Anecdotal indications are that, if fully functional, it has power comparable to Mercedes. As for the livery, McLaren has stated that it will be “graphite gray” as a main color and suggested that dayglo red will continue to be the main accent color. McLaren Confirms Change to Graphite Gray Livery
The first race of the European season is traditionally upgrade time for the other teams on the grid, too. We can expect upgrade packages from all other teams, except Force India whose upgrade package isn’t due until Austria, which should net them 10-30HP (more in Honda’s case if they are able to make anticipated updates) and incremental improvements in aerodynamic efficiency. For more on expected upgrades and challenges surrounding them, check out this article from James Allen on F1: Some Key Developments to Look Out for at the Spanish Grand Prix

US TV SCHEDULE:
Practice, Friday May 8th, 8AM EST , NBCSN
Qualifying, Saturday May 9th, 3PM EST , NBCSN
Race, Sunday May 10th, 7:30AM, NBCSN

CIRCUIT INFORMATION
Lap data
Lap length: 4.655km (2.892 miles)
Race laps: 66
Race distance: 307.104km (190.826 miles)
Pole position: Left-hand side of the track
Lap record*: 1’21.670 (205.192 kph) by Kimi Raikkonen, 2008
Fastest lap: 1’19.954 (209.596 kph) by Rubens Barrichello, 2009
Maximum speed: 318kph (197.596 mph)
DRS zone/s (race): Pit straight and straight after Campsa
Car performance
Full throttle: 67%
Longest flat-out section: 1310m
Downforce level: High
Fuel use per lap: 1.7kg
Time penalty per lap of fuel: 0.051s
Strategy
Quickest complete pit stop in 2013: 18.471s by Ferrari
2014 prime tyre: Hard (2013: Hard)
2014 option tyre: Medium (2013: Medium)

*Fastest lap set during a Grand Prix
Data sources: FIA , Williams, Mercedes

2014 (V6 TURBO ERA ) RESULTS:
Laps: 66
Pole: Lewis Hamilton, Mercedes
Fast race lap: 1:28.918
Podium
1. Lewis Hamilton, Mercedes
2. Nico Rosberg, Mercedes
3. Daniel Ricciardo, Red Bull-Renault