There is still a massive amount of uncertainty about whether the team will make it to Bahrain. Financial problems have hindered their preparations and the fact that they have not tested at all is a major concern, meaning that even if they do make it to Sakhir they will be massively off the pace. A real shame for their one confirmed driver, Bruno Senna, the nephew of Ayrton Senna, who had waited two years for his chance in the series.
The popular constructor's name, which last appeared in the sport in 1994, makes a return to the grid thanks to funding from Malaysian businessman Tony Fernandes. With the expertise of former Renault and Toyota technical director Mike Gascoyne, the team are not rookies by any means. Drivers Jarno Trulli and Heikki Kovalainen both bring plenty of experience to the squad and the team should do okay.
One of the most fascinating driving pairings on the grid as the 2008 world champion Lewis Hamilton is joined by last season's top dog Jenson Button in a battle of Britons. McLaren had a mixed 2009, a slow car improving as the year went on, eventually to become a race winner in the second half of the campaign. The car has looked quick in testing and should make their drivers title contenders; the big question is, who will lead the team's charge? ...continued