Thursday: McLaren off to a good start

Like Ferrari, McLaren-Mercedes succeeded in their weekend start at Monaco. Both drivers Hamilton and Kovalainen finished in the top 8 in both test sessions on Thursday. Improvements continue to be made on the MP4/24, making it gradually more and more competitive.

It is necessary if the Woking team wants to maintain its 4th place in the championship, especially since a major setback in the streets of the Principality would contrast with other years as this circuit has always suited them.

Lewis Hamilton – 3rd and 2nd:

Driving in Monaco is spectacular. You can’t compare it to any other circuit. It reminds me of how much I love this sport, the reason why I have this love for racing and why I love Formula 1. From today, I think Q3 is possible on Saturday. I am optimistic for a top 5 finish, we can make it.

Heikki Kovalainen – 4th and 7th:

« A lot of traffic but that’s normal in Monaco. The team worked very well and my car was competitive right from the first practice session. The most important thing is that we made constant improvements in the setup. Even though our car seems to perform well here, there is still work to be done, we won’t be able to perform miracles this weekend. »

Martin Whitmarsh – Team Principal:

« The whole team loves the thrill and tension that emanate from this circuit, and the level of performance encourages us to achieve another good weekend in the principality. Lewis and Heikki are really 100% invested in the race by delivering excellent sessions and, most importantly, helping us fine-tune our technical package before Saturday. It will be a more than crucial qualifying session for the race. We approach this Saturday very positively to achieve a good result with both our drivers. »