McLaren have it all to do

Alonso and Vandoorne start from the back

McLaren needed a big weekend at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, but what originally looked to be a difficult task, has now been made impossible.

The McLaren team start from the back of the grid, having been hit with engine penalties. In a complicated rulebook, a recent engine upgrade means they have used more parts than permitted. To keep things simple – they’ve been bad boys, and drivers Fernando Alonso and Stoffel Vandoorne must pass every other car if they are to win in Baku.

That has been reflected in Coral’s Grand Prix prices, with McLaren a bumper 750/1 to provide the winning car, 1500/1 Alonso to win the race. A lot more likely is for either driver to be the first to retire on the day, 8/1 Vandoorne and 9/1 Alonso. We certainly wouldn’t put anyone off a play on either man.

Hamilton looking to move up a gear

Lewis Hamilton told the press in the run up to Sunday’s race that he’s looking for some much-needed consistency, as he aims to strengthen his title push. The Brit was a short-price favourite in the driver’s championship before week one, but he’s not had things all his own way so far.

The 32-year-old Englishman goes to Azerbaijan second in the leaderboard, a dozen points off the pace of rival Sebastian Vettel. What will offer encouragement to backers of the favourite is the fact both men have won three races each, meaning there’s still all to play for. Lewis remains 10/11 favourite to finish the season on top, but he has now been joined by Seb, who’s currently trading at the same price. Mercedes are 2/5 nailed on winners of the constructers championship.