McLaren’s season to forget could be subject to a Hungarian glimmer

McLaren have long forgotten the sense of elation that comes as part of winning a Grand Prix, but they could get a sampler of success in Hungary this year.

Ok, so they’re sending their drivers off in grossly insufficient cars, but their record around the Budapest circuit has to give them cause for optimism in what has been an awful campaign to date.

Both frontline charges Jenson Button and Sergio Perez can be backed at monstrous prices to claim the chequered flag in the upcoming Hungarian Grand Prix and, while a win may be a little beyond them, they could be decent each-way shouts.

Button is a 100/1 shot with Ladbrokes, while his teammate can be backed at 200/1 and there’s a case to make for both.

McLaren has comfortably produced the most winners in Hungary since it’s inception, sending down 11 winners. Williams are their nearest rivals on seven. In addition to this, the team has triumphed in six instalments in this region of southern Europe since 2005.

Clearly, despite the team’s flaws in the manufacturing department, they know what’s required to get to the top of the podium in Budapest.

Furthermore, it’s worth noting that a British driver has prevailed in five of the previous seven renewals here. This may not do Perez’ chances any favours, but Button, who has celebrated victory here twice, should receive another much-welcomed boost.

Despite operating out of a sub-standard motor, the 33-year-old has only failed to finish outside the top 10 in three of the nine races so far this season, which is a strong appraisal of his ability behind the wheel.

He may be yet to podium in 2013, but the Hungarian Grand Prix represents both his and McLaren’s chance of doing so this season so make sure you’re on hand to pocket some dough when he does.

All odds and markets accurate as of publication’s time and date