The Singapore Grand Prix marks the first race of the six fly-away events that herald the end of the 2014 Formula 1 season, and for McLaren Mercedes, it is the first opportunity to secure a good haul of points as they battle the Sahara Force India team for fifth in the World Constructors’ Championship.
Racing Director Eric Boullier insists the team are still working hard on their 2014 car to try and maximise their position in the championship, despite the partnership with their German engine suppliers Mercedes coming to an end at the end of the season, with Japanese company Honda taking over from 2015. He believes the Singapore Grand Prix is one of the best events on the F1 calendar, and cannot wait to see his drivers Jenson Button and Kevin Magnussen out on track.
“The start of the fly-aways marks the final chapter of the world championship season,” said Boullier. “It’s a time when the whole team needs to dig deep as we continue our work to improve the car and carry some positive momentum across the winter and into next year. It’s an important time for everyone – and it will be interesting to see how our car responds to the return to the high-downforce circuits that proliferate for the remainder of the year.
“The Singapore Grand Prix has very quickly become one of Formula 1’s most important, vibrant and glamorous events. It’s a must-see race, and one that shows just what this sport can achieve with an open-minded approach to creating something new, unusual and innovative.”
With regards to the rule change implemented by the FIA regarding what can and cannot be transmitted via radio to the driver, Boullier insists the team will find an answer that will allow the team to benefit from the changed laws, with the Frenchman believing it will add an ‘extra dimension’ to the Singapore Grand Prix.
“We are still evaluating the full consequences of the new interpretation of Article 20.1 of the FIA Sporting Regulations, but, as a team, we will of course find a solution that works and which follows this new interpretation,” said Boullier. “Singapore is a difficult race to manage under normal circumstances, so this will definitely add an extra dimension to our preparations.”
