McLaren ´scared´ by Red Bull potential in 2017

McLaren racing director Eric Boullier concedes he is “most scared” of Red Bull’s potential in regards to next year’s sweeping rule changes in Formula One.

With wider tyres and new aero rules, F1 will undergo a major revamp ahead of the 2017 season.

While Boullier believes it is a chance for McLaren to close the gap on the leading constructors, he is afraid of what Red Bull are capable of considering their previous prowess in developing cars.

“For me, I’m more scared of Red Bull than any of the others because I know they can develop a car,” Boullier told Autosport.

He added: “It’s good we have this clean sheet of paper.

“I know we can do a very good job. We were pushing for the change because we believe in our capability to deliver a good car, so maybe it’s a way to close the gap even further.

“It’s a new era. We are at the end of a cycle and you are trying to fine-tune performance everywhere.

“With different aerodynamics next year, with a bigger wing, a bigger floor, when you are used to finding one point a week in the windtunnel, now you want 10, and it’s ‘wow!’ because every time you try something it’s a massive gain.”

One of the drivers in the paddock who has been most vocal about what F1 has become has been McLaren’s Fernando Alonso, but Boullier believes he will enjoy the sport again when he gets a feel of next year’s cars.

“He will be happier, and not only him, but every driver in the pitlane,” said Boullier.

“If you tell them tomorrow they will have a car that is four seconds faster, with more cornering speed, they will love it.”

He added: “Next year there will be more difference between the driver talent because the car will be much faster in the corners,” Boullier said.

“You may end up with the better drivers being definitely better, the cream rising to the top.”