F1: Ron Dennis says McLaren-Honda 'ready for the challenge' in 2015McLaren-Honda Formula 1 team boss Ron Dennis Tuesday said in Tokyo that he is fully confident that the reformed duo will perform well this season.
This statement comes after a series of problematic tests in Jerez a few weeks ago when the McLaren MP4-30 Honda only managed to cover 79 laps (350km) in four days. Dennis said both parties perfectly knew the challenge would be difficult. “Honda is a phenomenally committed company and the challenge we face together as we approach the 2015 season is just huge,” Dennis declared during the press conference. “Our competitors have had one year’s head start, which again amplifies the challenge. The rules and regulations have never been so complex for the power units. “As we approach this first Grand Prix [in Australia in March], the expectation becomes more intensive. The pressure from our fans, our drivers, our sponsors, the media gets more and more intense – but we are ready for the challenge.” Also present in Tokyo, McLaren’s director of racing, Eric Boullier explained that despite the disappointing lap times, the new car made progress during the Jerez test.
Driver Jenson Button agreed with Eric Boullier. “As we all know, testing is about improvement and, for me, that’s what the first test was. We saw quite a bit of improvement in the way we were working, but also in the direction we’re taking with the car and engine package,” Button said. “It really does feel as one and not like a car and an engine – it’s one full package, which is great. So I’m very much looking forward to the next two tests where we’ll make further improvements and hopefully arrive in Melbourne ready for the first race and fight for the best result we possibly can.”
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