Honda aiming for McLaren podiums in 2017

Honda have set their sights on returning to the podium next season.

McLaren's engine partner has struggled since returning to Formula One last year and despite steady progress, the results have ultimately not been what they wanted.

"Everyone has improved a lot in the year, both at McLaren and at Honda," said Honda's F1 chief Yusuke Hasegawa.

"We have shown some good results, but in the end I am not satisfied with the results we have," the Japanese told Speed Week.

After finishing the season in sixth, Hasegawa feels that aiming for the podium in 2017 is a realistic target.

"A podium would be a good result," he said. "And also a realistic goal, even if there is still a lot of work and some unknowns regarding 2017.

"For example, we do not know where the other teams are in terms of performance. The key is time," he insisted. "We need time for success."

Looking ahead to next year, Stoffel Vandoorne will drive for McLaren, taking the place of the retiring Jenson Button, a switch that Hasegawa is positive about.

"Stoffel has shown that he can fight," he said. "Normally, a new driver is a risk, but Stoffel is talented and calm. We have no great concerns about his performance as he has proved his talent already."

"The biggest problem is when a driver wants to prove something, but I want Stoffel to do his job and not put on a show. We have to make him feel good," he continued. "This will be very important."