McLaren is not out of trouble, according to Hill

The former world champion, Damon Hill, claims that McLaren could still be affected this season by new issues surrounding the espionage affair.

Although the FIA has drawn a line under this matter, the investigation in Italy continues, and new elements concerning this scandal should be examined by the police in the near future.

And Hill believes that since the issue has not yet been completely resolved, McLaren could find themselves distracted by this situation.

Speaking to the Times, he stated: « This season, I would really like everyone to think that it’s just a matter of competition, but there are underlying issues. »

« This is how I feel and I am not the only one. Many people think that this matter needs to be resolved while there is still time. »

Many believe that there is a lot of pressure on McLaren’s ‘shoulders’, which could affect its competitive ability. Indeed, the matter affected its competitive ability last year and impacted the team’s result in the championship.

Despite these feelings, Hill is convinced that Lewis Hamilton will be a great driver in 2008.

« Last year, Lewis was not really sure of his ability to succeed, while this season, he will compete knowing that he can be at the front and that he can win Grand Prix races, » he continued.

« This setback in 2007 has created very high expectations for what follows. Lewis is strong, and I think he won’t disappoint us. »