Fernando Alonso ended qualifying for the Chinese Grand Prix 13th on the timesheets, as McLaren proved again to be the slowest of the Renault powered brigade, but the Spaniard has turned similar start positions this year into solid results and he is hoping to do the same on race day in Shanghai.
Speaking to reporters afterwards, Alonso said, "It was not enough today. I'm quite happy still with the position, P11 in Australia, P13 in Bahrain and P13 again here. Having the free choice of tyre tomorrow could be an advantage for us, especially if we don't use the ultrasofts as they may degrade a lot."
"Hopefully we can keep taking points on Sunday. Our qualy pace is not good enough yet but we need to analyse why. The tyre degradation is going to be high tomorrow and it's supposed to be hotter and sunnier tomorrow."
"After three races we have identified some of our problems. We seem to be a little slow on the straights compared to our main competitors so I think there is potential to develop the car in that direction and gain some free lap time."
"Choosing the right strategy, the right pit stop at the right time will make a huge difference. It's up to us and I think the points are still very possible. Let's hope to see some results," added Alonso whose teammate Stoffel Vandoorne was 14th fastest.
McLaren racing director Eric Boullier was also hopeful, "Although we’re not expecting overnight miracles, we believe our race pace will continue to be more representative of our true performance."
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