The wraps are finally off! Today, McLaren officially launched their newest contender, the MCL38, marking the beginning of their 2024 Formula 1 campaign. This exciting McLaren car launch comes a month after showcasing the car's papaya orange livery, fueling anticipation within the racing community.
Just as the clock struck 8:38 GMT (a nod to the car's name), the MCL38 was presented through social media channels, offering fans a glimpse of the machine that Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri will pilot this season. This car launch signals McLaren determination to maintain their upward trajectory after overcoming a challenging start in 2023. Timely mid-season upgrades transformed their performance, taking them from point-strugglers to podium contenders.
By the end of the season, Andrea Stella's team had secured an impressive fourth-place finish in the constructors' standings, surpassing Aston Martin and sitting comfortably behind Red Bull, Mercedes, and Ferrari. This remarkable achievement was fueled not just by strategic upgrades but also by a restructuring within the team. Additionally, McLaren bolstered their ranks with renowned figures like ex-Red Bull engineering chief Rob Marshall and former Ferrari aerodynamic specialist David Sanchez, further boosting their capabilities for 2024.
Following the online presentation, the MCL38 is set to hit the track for a shakedown at Silverstone, marking the next step in its journey. McLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown expressed his excitement, acknowledging the team's hard work and the competitive nature of the sport. He emphasized that true progress will be measured in Bahrain's qualifying sessions.
Both Brown and Stella acknowledge the challenges ahead. While excited for the upcoming season, they remain realistic about the progress made by other teams in the off-season. Stella highlights the importance of infrastructure, personnel, and culture, noting that these areas are now in place to propel McLaren forward. However, he emphasizes the importance of pre-season testing in Bahrain and acknowledges the remaining development work before the season kicks off.
Although the MCL38 boasts innovative features, Stella clarifies that not all desired improvements are complete for the launch-spec car. These areas will become the focus of in-season development, already underway. This McLaren car launch marks a significant step forward, and with continued dedication and innovation, the team is poised for a thrilling season ahead.
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img via : Formula 1