McLaren remains realistic

The Woking team have openly admitted they are worried about the start of the season, with the MP4-24 clearly suffering from a lack of speed, largely resulting from a problem with their rear wing. This is also the first time in a long time that a McLaren encounters such big development problems.

As a result, Martin Whitmarsh is keeping a low profile for the moment, specifying that his team's problems have not yet been resolved and that their objectives remain realistic.

?We will start the 2009 season fully aware of the fact that we do not yet have the technical package that will allow our drivers to fight up front. In Formula 1, there is nowhere to hide, this is what makes our sport so demanding and yet so fascinating. Our team is used to hoping for victory and fighting for the world title, but this time we will go to Melbourne with a realistic goal. However, we will start this season with the firm intention of getting back to the front of the pack and we will not let our guard down until we achieve this goal. The most important thing is that we haven't forgotten how to win races. »

The world champion Lewis Hamilton is also aware that McLaren-Mercedes is not in the best position to fight at the front in Melbourne.

“At the moment, this year's car is a little behind the others in terms of pure performance, but I am absolutely convinced that we will be stronger and grow as the year progresses. Despite weeks of winter testing, it's still difficult to know exactly who has the best package and we'll have to wait until the weekend at Albert Park to find out. It?s always fascinating. »

“Maybe McLaren doesn't arrive in Melbourne with the same prospects of fighting up front that we experienced in both 2007 and 2008, but the whole team will work tirelessly to help us get back. in the front. I have complete confidence in my team. They are working so hard right now, working incredible hours and putting in a huge amount of effort. »