Racing director Eric Boullier claims in conversation with the French newspaper L’Equipe that McLaren has gained a second after replacing the Honda power unit with a new Renault engine.

McLaren expects at least a few victories in 2018. ‘We needed some time to adjust and it is premature to comment at this stage. We are not the only team and I do not know what other teams have done this winter. We have introduced the data from the Renault engine into the simulator and discovered that by simply changing the engine we save one second in time', adds Boullier.

Due to the new power unit, the British team faced some delays in the schedule, although the issue is now partly under control. 'The Honda and Renault engines have a different configuration, so we had to redesign the rear of the car. We have made up for the delay', explains Boullier.

The relationship with Honda turned sour because of poor communication. The chef however is tackling the situation by being more present. 'I was insistent on attending the first technical briefing with Renault so that I can help my boys in case of any confusion. I am positive that both sides are content. ' (photo: McLaren)

Will Sebastian Vettel become world champion in 2018? Earn 4.5 times your bet.