McLaren needs to revive fortunes

The duo collided during last week's Austrian GP and this Sunday will be battling to score maximum points for McLaren.

The high-speed Hockenheim circuit should suit their Mercedes-powered engines and as an added incentive both drivers will be vying to make history by scoring McLaren's 100th pole position.

Following Eddie Irvine's stunning win in Austria both McLaren drivers will be aiming to repeat their one-two from last year's German GP.

World champion Mika Hakkinen said, 'It's quite unusual racing at Hockenheim as we spend most of the lap 'hiding' in the trees, before reappearing in front of the big grandstands which surround the Stadium section.

'It's a fabulous circuit, very challenging, and the crowds always create an amazing atmosphere. I'm looking forward to it.'

Meanwhile, David Coulthard needs to make amends following his first-lap collision with Mika Hakkinen in Austria.

The Scot won his first GP of the year at Silverstone. He will be looking to repeat his success at the 4.2-mile circuit.

'Hockenheim provides an interesting challenge for setting up the cars,' said Coulthard.

'Straight-line speed is vital for the long stretches through the woods, but a compromise on the low downforce is needed so the car has enough mechanical grip to perform well in the tight Stadium complex towards the end of the lap.

'This is one of the few circuits which allow us to race at speeds in excess of 200mph and should be ideal for our powerful Mercedes-Benz engine.'