McLaren boss unconcerned with engine reliability

McLaren team boss Eric Boullier has claimed that he is 'not at all' worried about potential engine reliability issues in the 2018 campaign after three seasons with Honda which were marred by engine problems, with Renault set to provide the parts for his team from this season on.

McLaren remain one of the most successful teams in the history of F1, but as of this year they have not won a constructor's championship in 20 years. In recent seasons, their main issue has been engine reliability and this has been attributed to their partnership with Honda which has now been terminated in favour of Renault.

Boullier doesn't foresee as many problems with engines this campaign.

"Not at all. Renault has taken the necessary measures and made great efforts to make progress in this area," Boullier responded when asked if he was concerned about technical issues.

"The employees voluntarily worked throughout the holidays. Everyone has taken the news about the transition to Renault very positively, and we are working perfectly with our new supplier already," he added.

The pressure continues to grow on McLaren to get back among the favourites in the team rankings, especially due to the fact that Red Bull have been performing well using the Renault engines which Boullier's team will now be using.

Boullier says his team is not feeling the extra pressure, however.

"We do not feel additional pressure. On the contrary. The team is motivated by the fact that we will have two strong rivals in Red Bull and Renault. McLaren is in formula one to perform, not for the numbers," he added.