Delhi belly strikes McLaren team members

The first reports of ’Delhi belly’ affecting a formula one team this week have emerged from the McLaren garage.

SID news agency reports that the famous British team had to fly in from Woking some replacement staff, who had been placed on standby in case those in India suffered the notorious traveller’s illness.

The report quoted boss Martin Whitmarsh as revealing that four team members have been affected, with at least two already replaced.

Auto Motor und Sport says the affected number is closer to six.

"With the budget limitations (agreement), you cannot take spare staff to the races," Whitmarsh said. "But we have had standby personnel in Britain for each position in the team.

"They all had a packed suitcase and were waiting for the call," he added.