Having been excluded form the Constructors' Championship for its role in the spy saga, McLaren doesn't get to play any part in the podium ceremonies when one of its drivers wins a race, nor does it get the relevant race points or trophies. Indeed despite having accrued 195 points to Ferrari's 186 the Woking team will not see the 2007 Constructors' Championship trophy because to win it you have to be in it.

However, Ron Dennis has revealed that member of his team have made him his very own (entirely unofficial) 2007 Constructors' Championship trophy, which was presented at a special ceremony on Friday.

"I was very pleased to get the Constructors' Trophy yesterday from the mechanics, that they made," the Englishman told reporters yesterday. "That was a nice touch.

"It meant a lot to me because it shows that in adversity we've come close together and fought hard," he continued. "It has just got a very strong sentimental value. It will sit somewhere appropriate, probably in my office at home."

Referring to the team, which he has run since the end of 1980.

"A lot of people still think we are a pretty cold, grey team," he admitted. "Well, that's far from the truth. The team realise it has been a bit of a tough season, so it was just a nice gesture."