Belgian GP: McLaren and the Drivers, in Admiration of Spa!
McLaren-Mercedes engages on the Spa-Francorchamps track with the firm intention of gaining a place in the Constructors’ Championship, currently fourth, five points behind Ferrari. Lewis Hamilton and Heikki Kovalainen love this historic circuit. The goal, as with every race now, is to get both cars into the points to level with Ferrari. From a more […]
McLaren-Mercedes engages on the Spa-Francorchamps track with the firm intention of gaining a place in the Constructors’ Championship, currently fourth, five points behind Ferrari. Lewis Hamilton and Heikki Kovalainen love this historic circuit. The goal, as with every race now, is to get both cars into the points to level with Ferrari.
From a more technical standpoint, the MP4/24 may encounter some difficulties on the Belgian track. The cars do not necessarily meet the demands and sweeping curves of the historic Spa-Francorchamps circuit.
Lewis Hamilton – Racing Driver
« Like Monaco, Silverstone, and Monza, Spa is one of the historic circuits I grew up watching on TV when I was younger. It’s a little more special for me because it’s so easy to imagine the heroes of the past racing here. It’s also a magnificent circuit, a layout where you can really push the limits of a Formula 1 car: Driving in Eau Rouge, Blanchimont, or Pouhon provides incredible sensations, your whole body is at the limit, and it pushes you to go even faster. I love Spa. I think this circuit should never leave the Formula 1 calendar. »
Heikki Kovalainen – Racing Driver
« I think everyone in Formula 1 looks forward to Spa. For the drivers, the circuit is a fantastic challenge. Unlike some tracks we also visit, Spa has real character and it’s a place where the driver’s confidence and commitment can make the difference. You have to be brave to tackle the corners and take risks. Accidents are common. I love this circuit, I think it’s the best on the calendar. »
Martin Whitmarsh – Team Director:
« Despite some major improvements on the MP4-24, we head to Spa knowing full well that the high-speed circuit configuration will not perfectly match our car’s strengths. That said, our new technical package makes us confident, and we will be a strong contender for points. We must improve our position in the Constructors’ Championship. We have an impressive track record here, having won the race 10 times. Both our drivers, Lewis [Hamilton] and Heikki [Kovalainen], love this place, and I am eager to race. »
