Mercedes say they are dealing with some F1 engine issues

FILE PHOTO: Formula One F1 - Abu Dhabi Grand Prix - Yas Marina Circuit, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates - December 13, 2020 Mercedes' Lewis Hamilton in action after the race Pool via REUTERS/Hamad I Mohammed/File Photo

LONDON (Reuters) - Formula One champions Mercedes said on Friday they were dealing with some engine issues ahead of the new season but expected everything to be fixed by the first race.

The comment, in a team interview with engine head Hywel Thomas, drew some wry comments on social media from those who recalled the sport's dominant manufacturer saying something similar last year.