Defending world constructors' champions McLaren have made a strong recovery from their slow start to the ongoing Formula 1 season. After a disastrous Chinese Grand Prix where neither car could start the race, the Woking-based team has secured podium finishes in the last two events. Former Canadian Grand Prix winner Jean Alesi believes McLaren will be the primary challenger to Mercedes for the constructors' title as the season progresses.
Alesi's Confidence in McLaren
Speaking before the sprint race at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve in Montreal, Alesi said: "McLaren's case is strange because they never start the season well. But they always have a way to understand where their car is in terms of competitiveness. They know where they are losing performance compared to other things, and when they make those development upgrades, they are always right. For me, McLaren is going to be fighting for the championship the whole season with Mercedes."
Praise for New Regulations
Alesi also commented on the tight competition across the grid under the new regulations. Reflecting on the sprint qualifying, he noted: "The drivers looked very competitive yesterday. The grid is quite compact in terms of the time distance. The top six drivers are all within three-tenths of each other. We have seen how different the racing is with these new regulations with regards to qualifying time because the operation of these batteries makes them so different. I love it, honestly."
Alesi admitted he was initially skeptical about the new rules but changed his mind after the season opener in Australia. "I was surprised after the first race because I had heard so many bad things about the new regulations from many people during the winter break. I was waiting for the first race and when I was watching the Australian Grand Prix, I loved the competition that was there between Ferrari and Mercedes after a few laps. I loved it and I think it's a new way to race."
Russell's Form and Rain Challenge
George Russell has been among the biggest beneficiaries of the new regulations, with the Canadian Grand Prix being a particular favorite. The Mercedes driver won the last Grand Prix and secured pole position in his last two outings. However, with rain forecast for Montreal, Alesi warned that continued dominance is not guaranteed. "I have to say it's a gamble in the rain. It's not just the skill of the drivers. It's also because the quantity of water on the track can be a lot because of the rivers around the track. I hope we have an exciting Grand Prix, but I won't have anyone dominating under the rain."
