Vandoorne targeting more progress in Austria

McLaren-Honda's points-scoring finish in Baku, courtesy of Fernando Alonso, has boosted the team's confidence and Stoffel Vandoorne's is hoping to capitalise on the positive vibes.

Alonso believes more points could be up for grabs for the Woking-based outfit on a track which is less dependent on power, in which case the Belgian hopes it will be his turn to enjoy a top-10 finish.

"I’m looking forward to Austria – it’s a great little circuit that usually produces good overtaking, close racing and unexpected results.” said Vandoorne.

"It should also suit our package a little better than Canada and Baku, where the long straights really don’t play to our strengths.

“Scoring points in the last race was very good for the whole team’s motivation and morale, and I’m hopeful that we’ll be able to make further progress in Austria.

• Points within McLaren's grasp in Austria, says Alonso

To achieve a good result, Vandoorne will rely not only on the proven qualities of his MCL32 chassis, but also on Honda's new spec-3 upgrade which the manufacturer will bring to the Red Bull Ring.

“We’ve been bringing upgrades to every race, so a problem-free weekend, at a circuit that doesn’t disadvantage us, would really allow us to gain some momentum.

“Of course, we’re still some way off where we want to be, but a respectable result in Austria would really give the team an added boost.”

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