McLaren set to run last upgrade

The Mercedes-powered squad has made significant progress in the last few races, something that has allowed the team to fight on top of the field following a slow start to the season.

While several teams have already shifted focus to 2010, McLaren has continued to push with the development of this year's car and the team will introduce its last update package next weekend in Singapore.

Team boss Martin Whitmarsh admitted he is confident McLaren is set for another strong outing.

"Our pace in recent grands prix increasingly shows that we have developed MP4-24 into a pretty decent all-round competitor and we remain confident for the Singapore Grand Prix," said Whitmarsh in a team preview.

"For this race, we are introducing our last major upgrade package of the season before fully devoting our efforts and resources towards next year's car.

"Last year's event was a fantastic success and a testimony to what can be achieved in Formula 1 when you have vision, dedication and foresight. Everybody at Mercedes is looking forward to these final four flyaway races, the climax to a thrilling, eventful and unexpected title battle and our own steadily improving fortunes."

World champion Lewis Hamilton said he will push for victory in Singapore, having taken a cautious approach in last year's race.

"I remember my race in Singapore last year was all about damage limitation - I was driving with one eye on the world championship and wasn't going to take too many risks. I was happy to finish on the podium.

"This year, it's very different - I know I'm out of the title hunt and I want to attack these last four races, pushing for as many victories as I can."