Formula One news

McLaren just one lap short on fuel

McLaren driver Kimi Raikkonen finished today's Italian Grand Prix in second place after starting the race from pole position. Team mate Pedro de la Rosa was forced to retire on lap 21 with an engine failure.

"I'm happy with my second place here in Monza," said Raikkonen. "All in all this was a good weekend for us, and the team has done a fantastic job. We have improved our starting system, which helped me a lot on the run to the first corner. I was controlling the race until my first pit stop but the fact that Michael was able to stay out for one more lap than me eventually decided the outcome of the race."

De la Rosa commented, "I lost a place at the start to slot into eighth. After that I was stuck behind cars, so I never really found out how quick I could have been. My first pit stop went as planned. We put a lot of fuel in the car to ensure a long second stint which was aimed to get me in clean air at the end. However all of sudden the engine failed, I had to stop the car and that was the end of the race for me. It is a pity as our package was very competitive today."

Team boss Ron Dennis added, "A good drive from Kimi. A single lap of more fuel in the first stint could have turned second into a possible victory - but that's racing. Pedro suffered a rare engine failure, which meant an early end to his race. The result shows how the team's relentless efforts and disciplined approach throughout this weekend led to a positive result. Irrespective of the announcement of Kimi's future - and of course we wish him all the best - the entire team will continue to focus on the balance of this season where race wins are still possible as illustrated by today's result."

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