McLaren plays it safe ahead of 2025 season opener in Melbourne

In Melbourne, Lando Norris (McLaren) will celebrate six years since its debut in Formula 1, carried out on this same track (12th). The Briton was already driving one of the Woking single-seaters, whose colours he has worn since his first Grand Prix. "It's a special circuit for me", recalls the number 4 a few days before returning to Australia. In six years, he has gained experience and established himself as one of the best drivers on the grid and, above all, as a more than credible candidate for the title of world champion.

After an encouraging winter test for reigning Constructors' World Champion McLaren, Norris remains cautious. "We've had a productive preparation, but we won't really know where we are until after qualifying on Saturday." tempers the vice-world champion, whose car still made a strong impression during the three days of driving in Bahrain. "I think this season will be very exciting with a lot of close races", adds the British driver, aware of the challenge that awaits him in the face of Ferrari, Red Bull ou Mercedes.

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Oscar Piastri to attempt to become first Australian on home podium

While Norris is focused on performance and his dreams of victory, Oscar piastri, he is preparing to experience an emotional moment. The Australian, who will race in front of his home crowd, knows how special this Grand Prix is. “The support I get here is incredible, and it’s always a highlight to hear my name chanted by the fans”, he rejoices. Piastri hopes to shine on a track that he considers one of the most intense on the calendar. “The atmosphere at Albert Park is always exceptional, and with this race opening the season I'm sure it will be even bigger and more impressive.”

Andrea Stella, McLaren director, fully appreciates the challenges of this new season. “Everyone at McLaren has worked hard this winter to be ready for what promises to be one of the most competitive and uncertain seasons in F1.”, he emphasizes. Aware of the high level of the field, he prefers to remain measured, but sees Albert Park as the perfect theater to have an open race: “The circuit should offer good racing opportunities.”

With the 2025 season looking tighter than ever, McLaren is hoping to make a big impact at this first meeting. The first answer will come on Saturday with qualifying (5am in France), before a Grand Prix that promises to be electric in front of an excited Australian crowd. Oscar Piastri will try to become the first local driver to climb onto the podium. Unless Jack Doohan (Alpine) manages to create a sensation by reaching it before No. 81…

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