Ron Dennis: No Team Orders at McLaren

McLaren boss Ron Dennis said on Friday that he would rather risk his drivers crashing than introduce team orders.

"The drivers don't drive for themselves, they drive for the team and there is a strict policy of equality within McLaren," he said.

Dennis was speaking after McLaren pair David Coulthard and Mika Hakkinen led the way in opening practice for Sunday's Belgian Grand Prix.

He insisted both will fight for the world title even though Hakkinen leads Ferrari rival Michael Schumacher by two points at the top while third-placed Coulthard is four adrift of the German.

Dennis said that all McLaren's drivers since 1981 have been under a contractual obligation to follow any instruction given to them from the pit wall.

"I think that has happened about five times in 10 years and I don't see it being required this time.

"If it does happen, however, we will make that fact available. If you don't hear anything then you can assume the drivers have driven in accordance with the team and that the outcome not only fulfils their own aspirations but those of the team.

"Each race is discussed at various stages during the weekend, although obviously it doesn't always go right and there are times when one driver has squeezed another or they have touched -- but that is a price we are willing to pay."

Ferrari sporting director Jean Todt said his team's relegation from top spot had only increased their drive to land their first drivers' crown since 1979.

"We are even more determined to get back to the top," he said. "We know it has been a very difficult championship, but when you have a strong team in front of you and it is so close with five races to go, then it is important to start winning.

"The team is very motivated and working together with the same aim. We have a very good spirit in the team, the team members respect each other and it is good to work in this kind of atmosphere."