Hakkinen hopes for change of luck

The Finn has led both of the opening rounds but failed to finish either and trails arch-rival Michael Schumacher by a massive 20 points.

He looks to break his duck at Imola - a race he has never won in nine years of Formula 1.

"I must admit I haven't had an ideal start to the season. Hopefully my luck will change this weekend," he said.

"I like the circuit and hope to qualify well, which we have done so far this year.

"I have never won the San Marino Grand Prix - my highest finish was third in 1994 so it will be good to do well this weekend."

McLaren has an enviable record at Imola, having won six times in eight years between 1984 and 1991, including three one-two victories in 1988, 1989 and 1991.

Team boss Ron Dennis said its qualifying performances in the opening races that it was the pace of the field.

"We demonstrated both in Australia and Brazil that our cars are quick and the potential is definitely there.

"We have qualified one-two in both races so far and it's only a matter of time before we score our first victory of the season."