McLaren team principle Martin Whitmarsh has said it would be foolish to rule drivers Lewis Hamilton and Jenson Button out of the reckoning for this season's world title with three races remaining.

Races in Korea, Brazil and Abu Dhabi will bring a close to an epic campaign, but the British duo have fell off the pace in recent times.

Hamilton, who trails leader Mark Webber by 28 points and Button, who is a further three points adrift, face a stern test if they are to land another crown following their respective triumphs in 2008 and 2009.

But Whitmarsh believes it would be naive to write them off with so much left to play for.

"With three races remaining and 75 points on the table for the drivers, it would be unwise to write off Jenson, Lewis or McLaren," he said.

"Both drivers have won World Championships before. They understand the difficulties of such a unique situation.

"They both have learned how to deliver their best under high pressure, so they will be ready for this battle and it's a battle that will doubtless be won by consistency.

"While we will continue with our aggressive development strategy, bringing further new components to this race, we're mindful of the need to bag points at every race. Nonetheless, we are committed to winning, and won't give up without a fight."

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