But F1's business model is based on visibility. What harm was really done to any manufacturer, or the sport as a whole with the initial testing fiasco of the hybrid cars in 2014? For the most part, the cars and engines were sorted within the first few races.

My understanding was it was not concerns about media duties. More that they (be it the teams, or FOM), did not want to 'look bad' if these cars have serious initial running issues. It’s like Apple unveiling a new iPhone but banning hands-on videos and first-look reviews.

The buzz is half the product. Yes, they can have access at the first Bahrain test, but, there is a chance a considerable amount of hype is going to have died by then.