McLaren boss Andreas Seidl hopes to continue the momentum at the Austrian Grand Prix after the team’s strong weekend at Paul Ricard.
The British team responded to Renault’s result in Canada to lead the midfield in France and once again solidify their hold on fourth place in the Constructors’ standings.
However, a late hydraulics problem for Lando Norris, which dropped him down to ninth, served as a reminder to McLaren that they can’t back off on anything.
“We head to the Alps aiming to replicate the strong weekend we had in France,” Seidl said ahead of the trip to Spielberg.
“The team executed last weekend well, but, as always, we must not get complacent heading into the next race. Reliability remains an important focus for the team and the points at stake can make all the difference in the battle for the championship.
“There’s a really positive atmosphere within the team and among the fans which is motivating us to push harder and harder at each race weekend,” the German noted.
“The commitment and performance shown by our drivers is encouraging everyone back at the factory to give it their all and provide Carlos and Lando with the best possible car.”
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There is a key decision looming over McLaren though, and that’s the introduction of the ‘Spec-2’ Renault engine which Daniel Ricciardo used at Paul Ricard.
With the team currently in a strong vein of form, it is important to extract point possible, but by taking on the upgrade it will mean penalties for Carlos Sainz.
“That is, unfortunately, part of the game but it is the same for the others around,” the McLaren chief said.
“We have seen others are taking penalties already now, so we have to see. But the engine is a good step, it is encouraging to see that Renault is bringing updates.
“In the end, how the regulations are, you need to make a plan of how you’re going to use your engines throughout the season in terms of the modes, mileage and so on to avoid penalties,” Seidl concluded.