Mika Hakkinen has questioned why McLaren have yet to confirm their driver lineup for next season, with rumours linking Fernando Alonso with a return.
The Spaniard's future has been the subject of intense speculation, with new McLaren engine supplier Honda reportedly set to woo the Ferrari talisman at this weekend's Japanese Grand Prix in Suzuka.
For Hakkinen, a two-time world champion during his stint with the Woking-based constructor, the delay is allowing McLaren time to appoint the best combination for their 2015 cars.
The Finn told myhermes.net: "You do have to wonder why they have not entered into any driver contracts for next season.
"This is obviously because McLaren is trying to put together the best possible package. Drivers who have won a championship will always find teams that want to take them.
"It's obvious that when you can get the highest expertise available, you should."
McLaren have not emerged victorious from a grand prix weekend since November 2012 when Lewis Hamilton picked up his final victory for the team at the Circuit of the Americas.
