McLaren boss admits Alonso had a better car than Vandoorne

McLaren team boss Zak Brown has admitted that Fernando Alonso was given priority over Stoffel Vandoorne in terms of engine parts and engine updates on their respective cars, but claimed that the team was very happy with the performance of the Belgian driver regardless.

Two years ago, Vandoorne made his debut in F1 when he stepped in for Alonso as a reserve driver, but 2017 is considered to be the breakthrough season for the 25-year old. who impressed alongside Alonso and eventually finished 16th with 13 points.

The Spaniard, meanwhile, finished with 17 points but this was with significant engine improvements that Vandoorne did not receive, according to Brown.

“They did not always have the same parts,” Brown said.

“Both cars were looked after identically, but sometimes we only had one update available. The gap was created by the car and not by the skills of the drivers.

“We are very satisfied with Stoffel’s performance.”

McLaren's constant engine reliability problems under their partnership with Honda meant that Vandoorne had many opportunities for testing missed, while Alonso was allowed on the track.

Usually, the more senior driver in a team is favoured in these circumstances. Despite this, Brown insisted that Vandoorne did well with his chances even though he did not have as much testing time.

“It was not an easy start for [Stoffel] as we had problems with the reliability of the vehicle, he was a freshman who has been driving some circuits for the first time in his life.

“Stoffel had missed sessions on tracks he had never been to before,” added Brown

“He only had five laps to set a good time, so of course it’s difficult if your teammate is one of the best racers in the world.”