McLaren head to Monza on the back of a strong result at a circuit they never expected would suit their car, with Jenson Button qualifying in the top ten in Belgium and Fernando Alonso finishing seventh despite starting last.
However this weekend presents the team with their toughest test yet according to team boss Eric Boullier, as the sport heads to the fastest track on the calendar.
"As double-header races go, the Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps and Autodromo Nazionale di Monza are a pretty epic combination," he said. "Both are dauntingly fast, achingly beautiful motor racing arenas, where the sport’s giants have triumphed, and where some of the greatest stories in Formula 1 have been forged."
Honda have worked hard to bring upgrades to its engine, having spent seven tokens last time out, and Boullier is hopeful that they can show further progress in Monza despite predicting a difficult weekend ahead.
"After Spa, we head to Monza with the knowledge and understanding that it won’t play to the full strengths of our latest package, but keen to further demonstrate the progress we’ve recently been making.
"Monza is likely to be another tough test, but we’re confident of the momentum we’ve gathered, and it’ll be interesting to see where we stand at a venue that favours out-and-out power above anything else." he added.
"Still, there’s a determination and vigour within all at McLaren-Honda to see out the European season competitively, and to continue fighting as we head into the end-of-year flyways."
