• Chinese Grand Prix

McLaren drivers enthused by Shanghai challenge

Both Lewis Hamilton and Jenson Button like the Shanghai International Circuit © Getty Images

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• Race:
• Chinese Grand Prix

• Drivers:
• Jenson Button
• |
• Lewis Hamilton

• Teams:
• McLaren

McLaren drivers Jenson Button and Lewis Hamilton admit they are looking forward to driving the challenging Shanghai International Circuit.

"It's a track I enjoy: it's a typical modern circuit - it has a real mix of corners, but it manages to combine some quite precise and technical sections with some faster corners and long straights," said Button. "It's a good drivers' circuit while also being a place that benefits from a well-balanced car.

"I wasn't completely happy with the balance of the car in Malaysia, so I spent a day back at the McLaren Technology Centre looking at how we could have done things differently in Sepang while also looking ahead to Shanghai. Of course, it's a continuous process, but the overall feeling is that we're moving forwards - which, again, is always a positive."

After the McLaren team fell foul of the weather during qualifying in Malaysia, Button is also mindful that rain could again play a part.

"Last year, they moved the race from the end of the season to the start, and the weekend was quite a bit colder and wetter than it had been before. The weather forecast doesn't currently suggest this year's event will be any different - but I'm optimistic that we'll have a dry weekend and a more straightforward race than we did last year."

Hamilton, who won in Shanghai in 2008, is also looking forward to driving a circuit he enjoys and meeting some of the most passionate fans in Formula One.

"I really enjoy driving here - I drove one of my best races here in 2008, winning from pole position," said Hamilton. "After three races, we've been satisfied with our race pace, and we feel comfortable that we'll be up at the front. Overtaking is possible at this circuit, particularly at the end of the long back straight, so I'm pretty confident we'll have another competitive weekend.

"Finally, of all the places we visit around the world, I think the Chinese fans are some of the most passionate and dedicated. They've really supported me over the years and I look forward to meeting them again when I arrive in the city."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.