McLaren showed improved pace in the first race of the 2011 season, but Jenson Button had a frustrating Australian Grand Prix. Starting from fourth on the grid, Button didn't have a good first lap and found himself stuck behind Ferrari's Felipe Massa.

Despite visible use of the new drag reduction system, the Brit couldn't find a way past Massa and lost a lot of time trying to do so. Then he had to leave track to avoid a collision, made up the position, and was later penalised with a drive-through penalty.

Despite all of that, he finished the race sixth, and Button is capable of seeing the positives of the race: "After my drive-through penalty I had to fight my way back – which was fun but also frustrating. I just wish I could have got the best out of it today, but at least Lewis did a good job. We should be very happy with our pace though."