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McLaren 'not contenders' at Spa

ESPN Staff
August 17, 2013 « Raikkonen tests GP3 car in Barcelona | Kaltenborn backs Gutierrez to improve »
Jenson Button was keen to talk up McLaren's chances of success at Spa prior to the summer break © Sutton Images
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Jenson Button and McLaren team principal Martin Whitmarsh say the team is "not contenders" for victory at the Belgian Grand Prix.

Despite having been uncompetitive so far this season, Button was especially optimistic about the team's chances of success at Spa even ahead of last month's Hungarian Grand Prix. However, while he is still excited by the challenge of the circuit, Button says victory is not on his radar.

"The thing about Spa is that it just feels awesome to nail a quick lap around there," Button said. "You need a car that's perfectly synced to the driver, because it's such a long lap, and there are so many big corners, that you need to find that perfect balance. And getting the set-up right - and running flat-out for nearly two minutes - feels incredible.

"We don't go to Spa with the package to win, but I'll still be making the most of every single lap around this place - it'll still feel incredible."

Whitmarsh agreed, saying that the most McLaren could hope for was to make further progress with its car.

"While we're not contenders for outright victory this time round, the whole team is looking forward to another opportunity to build on our ability to understand and operate MP4-28."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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