Chinese GP: New components on the MP4/24 to aid McLaren

It is not a time for celebration for the major manufacturers. McLaren-Mercedes is among them, even though some, like the Reds, are in an even more uncomfortable position. The Woking team arrives in China with part of its focus on the April 29 hearing, which could well ruin its 2009 season just like that of 2007…

For now, at the Shanghai circuit, a slight improvement in the MP4/24 is expected with the arrival of new components. Therefore, the objectives are gradually being reconsidered with a better position on the grid and a finish in the points by the end of the race.

Lewis Hamilton – Racing Driver

I really like the Shanghai race. The track mixes speed and slower zones well with its corners. Some nice challenges for the drivers. Finding the right set-up is important; you need to be fast with a balanced car due to the high speed in the corners. Additionally, grip in the hairpins must be high.

I think we are all eager to show something good in China. We hope that some of the improvements we have added to the MP4-24 for this race will have some interest: It would be very encouraging if we could qualify a bit higher on the grid and be in the points in stable conditions.

Heikki Kovalainen – Racing Driver

The best corners of the Shanghai circuit are Six and Seven, fast left/right in shape. It is difficult to find the ideal set-up due to the variety of corners: A different level of braking, some are fast with direction changes, which require a good aerodynamic package. Others are slower where mechanical grip is important.

« It’s a matter of compromise, it’s a real challenge for drivers and engineers. But at least you can overtake mainly in corners 4, 10, and 13. »

Martin Whitmarsh – Team Principal:

We have reasons to be both disappointed and optimistic regarding our performances in the first two races of the 2009 season: Disappointed because we do not yet have the technical level required to compete with the leaders, but our rate of progression is quite rapid. We should be able to fight for points regularly.

« This race weekend will see new components arrive on the MP4-24. Even though we do not expect to drastically transform the car’s potential, it should be positioned slightly further up the field compared to the previous two races. »