From a year of not finishing races and using more engines than total points scored, McLaren has almost managed a complete turnaround this year.
Already up to seventh in the Constructors’ Championship, the MP4-31 is a lot more reliable and powerful than it’s predecessor. Honda has seemingly managed to fix the issues they were having with the hybrid system and the ‘size zero’ bodywork package.
Both Fernando Alonso and Jenson Button have had a good start to the season but reliability has still plagued their campaign. It is safe to say the McLaren is a competitive midfield car and has the potential to climb as high as fifth in the Constructors’ Championship. It will not be an easy job for the Woking team to get that high, but with updates coming to the car after the summer break it is possible.
The McLaren-Honda has been seen fighting for the bottom of the top ten in both qualifying and the races, just underlining the amount of development and progress the team have managed to make in a year.
Both drivers appear happier and more comfortable with the new car, even if some teething issues cause a little friction from time-to-time. It will be a fantastic day when the two McLaren boys can be battling out on track, finally giving the fans the fight they have been waiting for since the two former world champions were paired together in the team.
But while life is more happy sailing at the moment, there is still the rest of the season to complete. The debate about which two drivers McLaren will have next year is also a topic of discussion. Alonso is confirmed until at least the end of 2017 but whether Button or Vandoorne will be in the second seat is the real question.
