McLaren staying grounded despite sizeable P4 gap

McLaren are not getting carried away by their advantage they hold over Renault heading in the Japanese Grand Prix.

McLaren have a 33-point advantage over their engine suppliers with just five races left in the 2o19 campaign.

But, the Woking team are not taking anything for granted despite increasing that lead last time out in Russia.

“Although we head to Suzuka with an increased lead over our midfield competitors in the Constructors’ Championship, we are mindful that we still have work to do to lock down this position,” Seidl said in McLaren’s official team preview.

“The competition for these positions is very close, and can change over the course of a single weekend.

“From our side, we must focus on keeping the battle in our own hands, and that relies on maximising our on-track performance and trackside operations.”

That same mindset is shared by the drivers, too, with Carlos Sainz always wanting to achieve more.

“After a tricky start to the second half of the season, I’m glad to have scored good points in Russia,” Sainz added.

“I think the whole team deserved it. Although we managed to extend our lead in the midfield battle, the competition remains tight and I know that I need to keep pushing all the way to the end of the season.

“I want more, and that is the mentality we need to keep the whole year.”

Lando Norris added: “I’m looking forward to heading back to Suzuka, having taken part in FP1 there last year.

“It’s a fun track in an F1 car and one that hopefully allows for some good overtaking. Japan is also a very cool place to visit, although I’ll probably steer clear of the sushi!

“I’ve been doing a lot of prep for this race back at the factory, and I’m pushing hard to make the most of these last few races and build on our position in the midfield standings for the team.

“We’ll be pushing hard again to score more points and I can’t wait to race there.”

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