Bahrain II, Day 2: McLaren test report

Jenson’s run programme was affected by a gearbox issue – just as he was about to begin a late-morning race simulation run.

The resultant repairs kept the car from the track for much of the day. However, the mechanics were able to get the car running for the final 75 minutes of the session, enabling Jenson to get a long-run under his belt before the chequer.

Speaking at the end of the day, Jenson said:

“We had a problem within the gearbox – it took a while to change, as anything within the power-unit does these days – but we got back out at the end, and everything ran smoothly, which was good. It was a shame to lose that time – it’s the first major issue we’ve had this winter; but it’s better to suffer it here, rather than at a race weekend.

“We were still able to do a long-run on high-fuel this afternoon. The basic car is good, and there’s a great deal of potential there, but there’s still a lot of work to do. We have a good understanding of the power-unit, and we know how to race it, but, in terms of balance and grip, the car isn’t quite there yet.

“But I know we’ve got some good improvements in the pipeline – and they should help us close the gap to the front of the grid.”

Kevin Magnussen returns to the cockpit for his final day in the car before Melbourne.