Stoffel Vandoorne: “The pressure on the team is great”

McLaren will undoubtedly be one of the most closely watched teams from the first winter tests in Barcelona on February 26. The British team will indeed debut its new MCL33, which will be presented on February 23, powered by the turbo/hybrid V6 Renault replacing the Honda block.

An important novelty for Woking which will in fact be compared to other teams benefiting from the French engine. Eric Boullier, McLaren competition director, recently admitted to us that the move from Honda to Renault offered real motivation with “two real references with Red Bull and Renault.

For Stoffel Vandoorne, this new stage in the history of McLaren remains of capital importance after three difficult years with Honda.

" In 2018, the pressure on the team is great because we have big points of comparison next to us, like Red Bull who won races last season, indicates the Belgian quoted by RTBF. Renault also delivered good results. The pressure is there but it is positive and we need it to progress. »

A taste of the MCL33

Although the first laps on the track will not be effective until February 26, Stoffel Vandoorne was nevertheless able to begin work on the new car 2018 in Woking.

“I did my first day on the simulator at the factory with the engineers, specifies the Belgian. We were able to discuss a lot of things about the new car. I had my first feeling with the 2018 car. We are changing engine manufacturer, the change will be big for us.

Everyone is very motivated to start testing and to see what it will be like on the track. In Barcelona, ​​we will know a little more how the season will unfold. »