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Formula Sprint 2
Japanese Grand Prix
Suzuka International Racing Course
Tuesday 2nd of April 2024 19:00:00
More
May 18, 2004
MMC Racing gave their own perspective of the teams current mind-set after both cars finished outside the points. On very much a downbeat note, they are still looking forward to Monaco - although perhaps for not quite the right reasons!

Although they've achieved a Pole, and 2 podium finishes with Paul Sleight at the wheel, the team as a whole are performing below par and not meeting pre-season expectations.

Sleight had a problem with his gearbox in Spain. It's reported that it was a hydraulic failure with the automatic gearshift. He was not able to complete the race. Sleight was surprised when it happened and felt bad to not finish, but is looking forward to Monaco because of all the beautiful women.

A dismal season so far from owner/driver McConkey. He was bitterly disappointed after the Spanish GP.

"When the race was over, I was very upset with myself. I let the team down once again. My setup felt good in qualifying, but it came to be that I had to nurse the car towards the end, as the front of the plank was wearing too much. We just barely made it, but it really hurt my last stint times. I fell back a lot and I lost my points position because of it.

After the race, I reflected again on this season so far, and I cannot say that I am happy with it at all. I feel so bad to have not given a strong fight at the front for all the fans to see.

We are essentially rookies when you look at things, so we are learning as we go. Constant pressure is upon the entire team and me in particular because we have the best package it seems, but I am struggling to stay on the pace.

Honestly, I felt like calling it a day after that race. I really really tried but I got no reward from it. A feeling of hanging up my helmet and walking away came over me, and is still there, but I will try again at Monaco.

I've lost focus with my driving, and my performance has suffered. Hopefully, the nice atomosphere at Monaco will help me get my head clear of things and I'll be able to put pressure on my rivals instead."

F1VWC News Comment - it's tough out there on track, with a lot of quick drivers fighting for 8 points scoring positions. But we think Ryan McConkey will turn his season around sooner rather than later. There are still another 12 races to go, and we are less than a third of the way through the season. The challenge to perform will no doubt spur the team and its drivers to greater performances.