New Manor racing director Dave Ryan has backed McLaren to return to the front of the gird within the new few years.
The British team suffered a humbling 2015 as they finished ninth in the constructors’ standings, and first impressions suggest their 2016 car is not much better.
However, Ryan – who worked there for 34 years before being sacked after lying at the 2009 Australian Grand Prix – is confident they will be back.
"Let's be honest, McLaren is a bit of a sleeping giant at the moment," he said.
"They haven't had a good few years, and last year was particularly difficult I would say, but they've the potential to get it right.
"They're hurting, but if they get it right they will be right back up at the sharp end. They've a huge number of very clever people.
"It's a question of when, not if."
The new season gets underway in Australia next month.
Related topics
New Manor racing director Dave Ryan has backed McLaren to return to the front of the gird within the new few years.
The British team suffered a humbling 2015 as they finished ninth in the constructors’ standings, and first impressions suggest their 2016 car is not much better.
However, Ryan – who worked there for 34 years before being sacked after lying at the 2009 Australian Grand Prix – is confident they will be back.
"Let's be honest, McLaren is a bit of a sleeping giant at the moment," he said.
"They haven't had a good few years, and last year was particularly difficult I would say, but they've the potential to get it right.
"They're hurting, but if they get it right they will be right back up at the sharp end. They've a huge number of very clever people.
"It's a question of when, not if."
The new season gets underway in Australia next month.
Related topics