That’s the verdict of Mercedes chief Toto Wolff, who saw his team retain the World Drivers’ Championship and Constructors’ Championship this season.
The German manufacturers had Lewis Hamilton to thank for securing their fourth drivers’ title in a row this time around.
And the Brit’s performances, coupled with those of his team-mate Valtteri Bottas, meant Mercedes finished 146 points clear of Ferrari in the constructors’ standings.
Mercedes have been tipped to follow in Ferrari’s footsteps by winning both titles for a fifth consecutive year.
And Wolff believes his team faces a battle with at least two others to achieve success in 2018.
“Winning becomes more difficult with every single year,” Wolf told Formula1.com.
“I guess we will see a fight between Mercedes, Ferrari and Red Bull Racing – and maybe McLaren-Renault will join us in the title fight.
“That is an exciting outlook for the fans.
“But, of course, we want to make the right calls over the winter.
“Minimize your mistakes – and then go racing.
“And if you win you know that you have done a good job!”
Wolff will be hoping Mercedes get their 2018 F1 campaign off to the best possible start when the Australian Grand Prix rolls around next March.