Button and McLaren anticipate a good result in Monaco
As McLaren is experiencing one of the toughest season starts since its inception, Jenson Button believes that the Monaco Grand Prix might allow them to achieve a feat, where the performance of the Honda engine may be less crucial.
The McLaren team will start the European season next weekend in Barcelona without having scored a single point. Fernando Alonso and Jenson Button are, however, confident in the future progress of the new partnership with engine supplier Honda.
The British driver even thinks that the Monaco Grand Prix, which will take place on May 24th, could allow them to achieve a feat: « Clearly, we have a positive feeling about this. There are a few areas where the car would need to be improved if we were to go to Monaco tomorrow, but it will be a very interesting place to drive this single-seater. »
The tricky nature of the track and the fact that power units play a less significant role in the car’s performance could allow McLaren to achieve something interesting on the streets of Monaco: « It’s a tricky circuit where it’s hard to find the limits. Having a car you trust can make a big difference. I remember Jean Alesi in the Prost [in 2000] who really did a good job there just because he was confident with his car and had found a good balance. He probably didn’t have much downforce, but he did a good job and it boosted his confidence. You need that everywhere. Many Formula 1 drivers are talented, but it’s also a mental thing, especially in Monaco. »
We can also think of Jules Bianchi’s achievement, who scored Marussia’s first points last year on the streets of the Principality.
