Friday: McLaren F1 is not expected to be up to the level of the German Grand Prix
The first day of the Hungarian Grand Prix for Formula 1 was relatively good for McLaren, with both drivers comfortably in the top 10. However, the pace is not expected to be as strong as in Hockenheim.
Kevin Magnussen (No. 20) – 6th and 5th
The Dane is satisfied with the free practice sessions, particularly regarding the new parts fitted on the MP4-29: « We had a good day, with no real issues. We also successfully completed the entire testing program, which was positive. The new elements introduced in Germany still seem good, but there are always improvements to be made. We just need to maintain this impressive development pace during the second part of the season. »
However, on the sports side, the performances in Hungary should be more limited than in Germany: « I may have finished FP2 in 5th, but I think our work will be a bit more challenging than last weekend. At Hockenheim, the car’s pace was good enough for the top 5, but we are probably a bit further from that this weekend. »
Jenson Button (No. 22) – 9th and 9th
For the Brit, long stints are positive, but short stints are trickier: « I had a relatively good stint on the soft tires using a lot of fuel, so I feel happier about that, but the balance on a single lap is something we need to focus on. It was quite difficult to be consistent; the car feels different from one corner to another, from one lap to the next. I like a precise car and we haven’t achieved that: but I think we know why and we’re going to change it for tomorrow. I’m not too worried. »
« Looking at the timesheet, it is very difficult to know where we are: we are not with the Mercedes or the Red Bull, but the Williams seem a bit less competitive compared to the last races, » he concluded.
