McLaren chief at Whits’ end
MARTIN WHITMARSH has admitted to enduring one of the toughest days of his 24 years in the sport.
We lacked overall grip and consistency; there was a bit of understeer, and it was a poor ride
In a frank assessment of his team after the opening day’s practice for the Australian Grand Prix, McLaren team chief Whitmarsh and his technical crew are at a loss to understand their latest car.
Judging on his team’s early form, Jenson Button can forget winning his fourth race in five yearsin Melbourne, and newcomer Sergio Perez will have to temper his stated desperation for a maiden victory.
The duo finished 11th and 13th on the timesheet respectively, more than two seconds off the pace of reigning three-times world champion Sebastian Vettel, as Red Bull showed their true pace.
“That was one of the hardest days I can recall,” said Whitmarsh.
“We lacked overall grip and consistency; there was a bit of understeer, and it was a poor ride.”
At the end of last year, McLaren finished the season with the quickest car, but have made big changes.
“At the moment we don’t fully understand how to get the best out of it,” said Whitmarsh.
“But we’re a strong team and we’ll have to fight our way through.”