Indian GP: McLaren 'can't let Sebastian Vettel escape' says Jenson Button
Jenson Button reckons McLaren has little chance of denying Sebastian Vettel Indian Grand Prix victory unless it can get among the Red Bulls at the start
With Red Bull having locked out the front row again, and track position having proven so crucial in ensuring victories, Button is under no illusions that polesitter Vettel cannot be left to get away.
"It will be an important start to the race," said Button. "Turn 1 and the first lap will be important to the race result.
"You cannot win everything in Turn 1 so we have to be careful. We are normally good at judging how much to push and I am sure there will be some good fighting."
Button thinks that tyre strategy will be fascinating in the race, with most teams likely to push for a one-stop race.
"It is interesting as the tyres are hanging on in there for a long period of time," he said. "I think most people came here thinking it would be a two-stop but most are going for a one-stop."
McLaren team principal Martin Whitmarsh agrees that stopping Vettel breaking clear early on is essential.
"For the fans we have to make sure we put on a good fight," he said. "We have two passionate drivers who will give us a shot.
"This season has been quite an interesting season, it has had ebbs and flows. We have had periods where we were quite strong, and at the moment Red Bull are strong.
"We have to work hard, and push harder. We have to do good starts and, if we do that, we are in with the chance of a good fight.
"If someone gets in the lead they can manage tyres better - and it is easier, and that is the challenge."
Be part of the Autosport community
Join the conversationShare Or Save This Story
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