McLaren-Honda continued their terrible start to the 2015 Formula One season, as once again both cars failed to make it through to the second phase of qualifying in Malaysia.
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With Fernando Alonso back alongside Jenson Button following an injury sustained in a crash during pre-season testing, it was hoped that the team could ignite some momentum in Sepang. But the pair – who have three World Championships between them – finished 18th and 17th respectively, missing out on progressing to the next phase.
The disappointment follows an awful showing at the opening race in Australia. Button and Kevin Magnusson – who was standing in for the Spaniard – also failed to get out into the second session.
They have been joined towards the back of the grid by Sauber’s Felipe Nasr, who finished just ahead of the McLaren pair, and the debuting Manor team. Will Stevens failed to set a time so will sit in the final spot, whilst Roberto Merhi was well off the pace so joins his teammate on the back row.
However, their places in what would be their first race is awaiting confirmation, as neither driver managed to set a time within 107% of the leading time, set by Mercedes’s Lewis Hamilton, meaning that they will need approval from the FIA before tomorrow.
The current World Champion beat off his main rival Nico Rosberg to top the time sheets.
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