McLaren "prepared" for Mercedes issues in testing

McLaren is prepared for any issues that may arise with its new Mercedes power units with just three days of testing ahead of the new season.

Formula 1 is running a reduced testing programme this year, effectively putting McLaren on the backfoot following the winter switch from Renault to Mercedes engines.

The head of Mercedes High Performance Powertrains Hywel Thomas has already stated there have been "issues" with the latest engine, although McLaren technical director James Key has indicated there have been no problems so far.

The crucial period for McLaren, however, will be in testing which takes place from March 12-14 at the Bahrain International Circuit.

Team principal Andreas Seidl said: “Obviously, we are aware of the challenge we are in at the moment especially given the limited testing that takes place in Formula 1 and the lateness of the official test.

"But, I have to say, with everything I have seen so far, I am confident we will be ready for the test and the first race.

"We have seen, especially in these difficult circumstances under this pandemic, some great teamwork between our guys and the guys from Mercedes in Brixworth.

"But at the same time, it is also clear, that switching power unit over the winter has been a big challenge, and we are aware of the potential issues that could bring with it going into this first test.

"But we have a lot of experience in changing power unit recently. The Mercedes guys are very experienced as well, so I feel prepared."

The two parties are reuniting for the first time since McLaren switched to Honda power for the start of the 2015 campaign, after experiencing success since the partnership began in 1995.

Seidl, however, has designated this as a new partnership and expects there to be pressure to perform from the off.

"For the first races we will go into together with Mercedes, that it is a new partnership, we will learn together especially during these first race weekends when the pressure is up for the first time to deliver," added Seidl.

"It's simply a process you can’t shortcut, but we were aware of that when making the decision to go for Mercedes. I am looking forward to that challenge and I'm sure we will be able to manage that challenge together.”

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