Apr.4 (GMM) Former double world champion Mika Hakkinen has tipped McLaren to bounce back to winning ways during the course of the 2007 season.
After failing to win a single grand prix with Woking based McLaren last year, Kimi Raikkonen switched to Ferrari, where in Melbourne the Italian package looked set to dominate at least the early phase of this season.
But while Finn Hakkinen, 38, sympathises with his countryman's Maranello move, he said McLaren is sure to give Ferrari a run for its money in 2007.
"The way that McLaren develops a car is very strong," Hakkinen, who now drives for Mercedes-Benz in the DTM touring car category, told the men's magazine 'FHM'.
Referring to Raikkonen's decision to jump ship last year, Mika added: "During my career with McLaren I also had moments of doubt.
"Kimi went away to Ferrari as a defensive movement, but I believe that the speed of McLaren's development will be very fast this year."
He assures Fernando Alonso that, with McLaren and team boss Ron Dennis, he has landed with a winning team.
Hakkinen said: "Ron is a very loyal person. When he has committed to you, you know he will find a way to take you to victories.
"It can take some time, but it will happen."
Written: Wed, 04 Apr 2007 09:44:24
[ Print View ][ E-Mail Article ]
- August 20, 2008Safety car key to Valencia
- August 18, 2008Mercedes' 25bhp advantage
- August 13, 2008McLaren to 'rotate' F1 staff
- August 11, 2008McLaren still in front - Heidfeld
- August 03, 2008Sunday quotes: McLaren
- August 03, 2008Saturday quotes: McLaren
- August 02, 2008Practice 3: Hamilton comfortably
- August 02, 2008Friday quotes: McLaren
- August 01, 2008Hamilton for hat-trick?
- July 31, 2008McLaren confirms Kovalainen for 2009
- (April 04, 2007)View all headlines from this date
