McLaren not just targeting Ferrari: 'Want to beat 9 other teams too'

McLaren to the top

In 2020, McLaren put in a great performance by finishing third among the constructors. Racing Point was left behind with a copy of Mercedes and also the factory Renault team could not match McLaren. With a new Mercedes engine in the car, McLaren hopes to make a bid for the spot of 'best of the rest' again in 2021.

''The whole group we were battling with last year, we will just continue with them in 2021. Sebastian Vettel is a four-times world champion and although he didn't have a strong year last year, I think he will be back on top form this season and will be extremely motivated. We will have to keep an eye on these guys,'' Brown told Sky Sports.

Battle with Ferrari

Another team to watch is Vettel's old team Ferrari. The Italians fell way back in 2020 as the engine had to be downsized. For 2021, however, Ferrari has had time to recover and possibly return to the top. That is what Brown is counting on.

''We have to look after ourselves and not focus on beating Ferrari. We want to beat nine other teams. I would be very surprised if Ferrari finishes sixth again in 2021. I think that was a one-off. It's a great team with two strong drivers, so I think the fight will only get more exciting,'' concludes the McLaren boss.