McLaren Review – The suspense remains for the title!

Huge twist in China, as the title seemed almost secured by Hamilton in this 2007 season, he was forced to retire in the second half of the race. This allows Räikkönen to come back but, more importantly, his arch-rival Alonso, now just 3 points behind the Briton.

The Spaniard thus finishes the race in 2nd place, too far to have been able to challenge the Finn.

So everything will come down to Brazil, where the odds suggest that a McLaren will win the world championship title. So, will it be Hamilton’s arrogance and genius or Alonso’s determination and experience? The answer in two weeks…

Lewis Hamilton – retirement

“When I got out of the car, I was obviously very angry with myself and with the team. I haven’t made a mistake all year but the only downpour now. There is one race left, I’m staying more focused than ever.”

“I had a remarkable start to the race and my first pit stop went well. Before entering the pits for my last stop, I was in constant communication with the team. Although my tires were in a terrible state, we made a joint decision before switching to dry tires. I was trying to be very careful and as a result, I couldn’t really fight with Kimi.”

“In the end, I think we made the right decision, but it was just unfortunate. I am now focusing on Brazil where I will do everything to bounce back.”

Fernando Alonso – 2nd

“Today was a very good result for me. I had a battle with Felipe at the beginning of the race, but unfortunately, I couldn’t finish the first lap ahead of him. As a result, I lost a lot of time behind him in the first assigned stint because there was a loss of aerodynamic downforce following him in the high-speed corners.”

“I think the right decisions for the right tires were made at the best times. Although this result increases my chances in the championship, the hardest part is not yet done. However, I will not give up until the checkered flag is waved in two weeks.”

Ron Dennis – Director

“The start of the race saw everyone being careful to avoid making any mistakes. Lewis built a comfortable lead and pitted a bit earlier than Fernando and the two Ferraris. All these cars stayed on the same set of tires, which was clearly the right decision.”

“Lewis was the first to stop for the second pit stop, but a combination of tire condition, the wetness of the pit lane, and a small error saw him go out and get stuck in a gravel trap.”

“Fernando’s stop took place on the following lap and he delivered an excellent race to firmly position himself in the race for the world championship. We are now focusing on the next Grand Prix with Fernando and Lewis having a points advantage over Kimi; it should be an interesting finale in Brazil.”

Norbert Haug – Mercedes Motorsport Director

“It’s very unfortunate what happened to Lewis, but no blame should be placed on him. He was performing well but was unlucky. Fernando finished on the second step of the podium in a challenging race and difficult conditions, doing a remarkable job to remain in the fight for the world championship title.”

“The team has worked hard throughout the season, and we will come out of this GP even stronger. We now set our sights on the finale in Brazil where we’ll face a battle between three drivers for the world drivers’ championship, but we are still in a good position to claim this title.”