McLaren - Very fast, but flawed
by Julie Gates
The Team: The Silver Arrows have the speed and expertise needed to regain their place at the top of the class... as long as they can reach the chequered flag. They have dominated in qualifying, securing most of the pole positions this season. However, they have only finished half their races, so it is obvious that something needs to be changed. The McLaren team are a clear indication that speed isn't everything in Formula One. They took huge leaps forwards with this year's car, are have suffered the consequences. Most of their reliability problems are caused by vibrations and the tail overheating, causing the numerous failures that we are becoming so used to seeing. Nonetheless, they are now winning races, in addition to qualifying well, and getting back on terms with Ferrari in the Constructors Championship.
Driver - Mika Hakkinen: Dominated qualifying, demonstrating outright speed and talent. In Australia he brought the roof down when exiting the pits and at Imola he made an avoidable mistake, ending up driving head-first into the pit straight barrier. However, he handled the pressure of Schumacher's attack at Brazil brilliantly and he did well to finish third at Monaco with mechanical problems. He dominated the Spanish and Canadian Grand Prix, and put in a stunning performance in France, extending his lead in the Drivers Championship to eight points. With Schumacher injured, he is favourite to win a his second World Title.
Driver - David Coulthard: The victim of much criticism this season, which hasn't really helped him. Clearly has the speed and talent to perform for he has put more pressure on his team-mate this year than last. He is still the unluckiest McLaren driver ever. Retirements and back markers have been the cause of many woes this season. Saying that, his drive at Imola was impressive, and he didn't put a foot wrong in the Silverstone race. He did well in Spain, if slightly off the pace, and overshooting the pit cost him (and the jack!) dearly. Coulthard certainly has the speed and potential to perform when the car makes the finish line. Could watch what he says more carefully, and must aim for third or better in the championship.
What next: They're doing it all already! Working hard on reliability. Bring on developments increase speed...
Conclusion: They have the drivers, the expertise and the equipment required to secure both titles this year. Their car is very fast and has superior aerodynamics to any other on the grid. With improved reliability, and Schumacher sidelined, they are clear favourites for the titles.
Rating: 8/10
Article is written by and copyright © 1999-2001 Julie Gates and The F1 Rumors Site
Julie Gates is happiest watching F1 and writing. Also interested in singing, cars, cinema, reading and going to concerts, she has little spare time to relax, but this is the way she likes it - rather being busy than idle as she can't stand still for five minutes! Totally committed to her career as a Formula One journalist, she is determined to succeed.
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