McLaren blames backmarkers
Ron Dennis believes dithering backmarkers cost McLaren victory in the European Grand Prix
The McLaren team boss says cars a lap down did not get out of the way fast enough as Mika Hakkinen pursued Michael Schumacher for victory at the Nurburgring.
Dennis was speaking after Hakkinen finished second as Michael Schumacher triumphed in his own rain-lashed back yard.
Schumacher's fourth win in six races stretches his lead in the championship to 18 points heading to next week's Monaco Grand Prix.
"There is total inconsistency in the blue [overtaking] flag situation and that cost us victory," said Dennis.
"We were on schedule to take the lead from Michael in the pit stops when Mika got delayed by three cars scrapping for a place a lap down. That shouldn't happen."
"Even with losing some time in the pit we still should have been able to get ahead of Michael."
"Back markers move over faster for the leader than they do for the guy who is second because they think it is one of their rivals."
Share Or Save This Story
How the McLaren MP4/8B's engine blow-up changed F1 history
Is the MP4/8B McLaren’s greatest what-might-have-been?
Why McLaren has been coy about introducing its rotating F1 rear wing
Marquez baffled by “massive” tyre drop in British GP sprint
MotoGP British GP: Martin leads Aprilia domination in sprint
BTCC Knockhill: Morgan claims qualifying race win for Plato team
MotoGP British GP: Martin on pole with Marquez only sixth
Subscribe and access Autosport.com with your ad-blocker.
From Formula 1 to MotoGP we report straight from the paddock because we love our sport, just like you. In order to keep delivering our expert journalism, our website uses advertising. Still, we want to give you the opportunity to enjoy an ad-free and tracker-free website and to continue using your adblocker.
Top Comments