F1, Japanese Grand Prix: Race Predictions

#4 Tyre choice fiasco hurts McLaren

F1 Grand Prix of Japan - Qualifying

McLaren missed the deadline for submitting their tyre choices to Pirelli for the Japanese Grand Prix, and hence have been handed a default set of five mediums, four softs and five super softs. The mistake has hampered their chances all weekend. First in practice

Starting from eighteenth and nineteenth on the grid, scoring points would be a tough task. Only 23 points separate them from Racing Point Force India, so McLaren cannot afford to put a foot wrong at this stage for the risk of slipping down the ladder. Toro Rosso and Sauber also remain close by and it is important for the British team to pull up their socks unless they want to end the season on an extremely low note.