Ferrari lay down early marker, but can they push Mercedes all the way?

The one story that has emerged out of the opening few weeks of the Formula One season, is the impressive start that Ferrari has made.

Many people thought that all the focus would be on the domination of Mercedes after race two of the season, and they would have been right in thinking so. Not many fans, or pundits, expected us to witness an alternative winner, other than the two boys at Mercedes, this early on in the season.

However, last week's surprise victory for Sebastian Vettel has ruffled a few feathers in Formula One and people are starting to talk about whether Ferrari can mount a serious challenge against Mercedes this season.

The German's first place in Malaysia, also backed up his podium finish in Australia, where he finished an impressive third in Melbourne.

Vettel has seemingly handled the transition from Red Bull extremely well, and his partnership with the ever competitive Kimi Raikkonen, is one that could cause Lewis and Nico some issues this campaign.

Despite this, Kimi has somewhat slipped under the radar so far this season, with all the attention on his new teammate at Ferrari. However, a disappointing result in Melbourne, where he failed to finish the race, was soon amended by a fourth place finish in Kuala Lumpar.

It would be foolish to rule out the Finn from making an impact this season, and with all the focus away from Kimi, he has his ideal scenario where he can go about his business quietly.

Sebastian Vettel is at 5/1 on Bet365 to win the championship overall, with Kimi at 50/1.

Despite Ferrari's excellent start, it is still hard to see anyone other than Lewis Hamilton or Nico Rosberg winning the Drivers' Championship, although it would be great if they can remain competitive and keep the season interesting right down to the wire. There is certainly no reason as to why they can't, but if they do not manage to do so, either driver looks a great bet for finishing in third place behind Mercedes.

Sebastian Vettel to win the Drivers' Championship, without Mercedes, is at 4/9 on Betfair, whilst Kimi Raikkonen is at 7/2.

Most punters will be more tempted by Vettel after his electric start, but Kimi is certainly no pushover. With Ferrari looking in great shape so early on in the season, we could see a real battle developing between the two drivers, in which case it could become extremely close towards the end of the season.

Betting on F1 is fairly predictable, just like playing pokies or slot machines, where the house always wins in the long-run. However with F1, money can be made if you don’t mind your money being tied up for a number of weeks whilst the season plays out. If you prefer the option of a quick thrill on the pokies, take a look at Pokies Palace.

Mercedes aside, it is Ferrari that is leading the challenge after two rounds and it is hard to see anyone catching them for the runners-up spot.

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