Despite finishing last in the 2007 constructors’ championship, McLaren may this year avoid the indignity of occupying the last garage slot in the grand prix pitlanes of the world.
As well as having the highest race numbers – in McLaren’s case 22 and 23 in 2008 – finishing the previous year’s teams’ title last usually means having to take up residence in the farthest pit boxes at each circuit.
However, despite having all its points taken away last season amid the espionage scandal, it seems that McLaren will call the fifth garages home in 2008.
The Finnish daily newspaper Turun Sanomat reports that Bernie Ecclestone has ordered the re-shuffle so that one of F1’s ‘Big Two’ teams can still have access to first class circuit facilities this year.
It is reported that Ecclestone, F1’s chief executive, actually wanted Mercedes-powered McLaren to have the third pit area, but Renault – officially third in the championship last year – objected.
At most F1 circuits, the first three pit garages are wider and include better amenities for its personnel and guests.
McLaren would not confirm the Turun Sanomat report.
