Canada was the first of a few tough races for the McLaren team as the Honda power unit has its many weaknesses exposed. A disagreement over team radio between Fernando Alonso and his race engineer regarding fuel saving points towards the Honda unit being both hungry as well as just plain slow. Much of the same is expected at the Austrian Grand Prix, especially with the high altitude. With engine penalties looming for both drivers as well, the chances are that they will start towards the very back of the field. However, some aerodynamic upgrades are expected for Alonso, most notably a shorter nose.
2015 Austrian Grand Prix McLaren Preview
No. 14 Fernando Alonso
Form: 12/11/R/R/R
2014: Grid: P4, Race: P5
The Austrian Grand Prix is one of the few events on the current calendar which Fernando Alonso hasn’t won in the past; however he had an absolutely stellar performance here last year, being best of the rest behind the Mercedes and Williams teams. Reliability has been a major concern for Alonso this season, and his car has seen the chequered flag on just two occasions. As a result, he is likely to suffer a significant penalty this weekend, which may transfer into further penalties in the race. He is yet to fail to finish four races in a row during his long career, and Austria could see that happen.
No. 22 Jenson Button
Form: 14/-/16/8/R
2014: Grid: P12, Race: P11
Conversely to Alonso, Jenson Button did not have a strong run at all last year, being well and truly humbled by Kevin Magnussen. He has a best result of fourth in Austria, which he achieved way back in 2003. Also a concern reliability-wise, this race could well see Button start right at the very back if he gets going at all. Canada was a race to forget for the Brit and he misses out on the upgrades this weekend as it was his turn last time around. I wouldn’t count on either McLaren doing too well here at all.
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