Monaco GP McLaren preview

The 2001 Monaco Grand Prix, round seven of the FIA Formula One World Championship, takes place on the picturesque streets of Monte Carlo. The West McLaren Mercedes team arrives in the Principality occupying strong second positions in both the Drivers' and Constructors' World Championships following David Coulthard's 11th career victory in Austria 10 days ago.

Since the Austrian Grand Prix, the West McLaren Mercedes team has been testing in Valencia, Spain. David set the fastest time of the day on Wednesday and Thursday, securing the lap record for the track with a time of 1.12:740, with Mika topping the time sheets on Tuesday. The Monday following the race, Mika stayed on in Austria for filming in the countryside surrounding Graz for team Partner West as part of their regular feature programme.

McLaren has an impressive history at Monaco having won the race 11 times, more than any other constructor. Last year saw David win the race and Mika set the current Monaco lap record with a time of 1.21:571. The team obtained its first victory in Monte Carlo in 1984 with Alain Prost, this began a run of wins that lasted until 1993, excluding only 1987. During this time Ayrton Senna secured five of his record six victories at the event.

DAVID COULTHARD
"Last year's race was very special to me as, along with the majority of drivers, Monaco is one of the tracks where I had always wanted to win and I am aiming to do the same this year. In Austria we once again demonstrated the speed of the car and the excellent strategy capabilities of the team, the latter of which can be very important in Monaco."

MIKA HAKKINEN
"I always enjoy racing at Monaco, it's a very individual and exciting circuit, steeped in history, that offers different challenges to any of the other tracks on the calendar. The West McLaren Mercedes team has had a positive test session in Valencia this past week, the MP4-16 was quick and reliable and I am looking forward to driving the car round the streets of Monte Carlo."

RON DENNIS
"Monaco is a difficult race for the drivers and the team, the circuit's original characteristics demand the utmost concentration and focus from everyone involved over the whole weekend and limit the preparation which can take place prior to the event. The result in Austria was fantastic for David and the team and we are looking to continue the championship challenge at this race."

- McLaren