McLaren under no illusions

"Although David Coulthard's podium finish in Brazil was encouraging for the team, we are under no illusions," said Whitmarsh. "There is a lot of hard work required to ensure that we are consistently competitive over grand prix weekends, and the whole team is focused on continuing the programme to improve our performance and reliability."

Coulthard's third place at Interlagos was his first points finish of the season. The Scot already looks an outsider for this year's world championship, but he usually goes well at Imola and is hoping to again this weekend.

"The result in Brazil demonstrated that we are moving in the right direction and I am now able to begin my 2002 Championship challenge in earnest," he stated. "I have a good record at San Marino, having secured podium finishes in the previous four races, and I am aiming to extend this run. The anti-clockwise circuit offers limited overtaking opportunities, with the best chance through the Tosa hairpin."

McLaren has won the San Marino GP six times. Its last win came in 1998 when Coulthard stood on the top step of the podium.