McLaren to focus on small upgrades

The Woking-based squad took its first win of the season in the Chinese Grand Prix, but team boss Martin Whitmarsh admitted it is vital to keep pushing to stay near the front of the field.

McLaren will evaluate several small upgrades in Istanbul in the hope of closing the gap to Red Bull in terms of pure pace.

Whitmarsh is hopeful that the changes will translate into practical gains for his team.

"Winning in China was a fantastic reward for all the hard effort that's been undertaken both at the racetrack and the McLaren Technology Centre to turn MP4-26 into a race winner," said Whitmarsh.

"We're excited and encouraged by the pace and consistency that both drivers have shown in the opening three flyaway races, but the return to Europe brings fresh challenges.

"We're under no illusions that we need to improve our qualifying and race pace if we are to remain a threat at the front. Additionally, many teams will be readying significant upgrade packages for the Turkish Grand Prix; nobody can afford to sit still.

"For this race, we'll be evaluating a number of small modifications - which include some aerodynamic refinements to the bodywork - during Friday practice.

"Our pace of development is what can win us this championship, and we go into Turkey determined to ensure our upgrades deliver practical gains and are able to confer a useful margin to both drivers.

"Our one-two finish in Turkey last year was one of our most exciting races - and the memory of that result will doubtless spur on the whole team next weekend."