McLaren chasing Ferrari for second place

McLaren has been growing steadily for almost a year. The Papayas continued to develop their car until they found a place among the very best teams on the grid. In 2024, the Woking team is currently third in the standings, driven by Lando Norris, already author of a podium (in Australia). Last year, at the same stage of the season, the Oranges had 14 points, or 55 fewer.

Our best start in 13 seasons… but still work to do. 👊 pic.twitter.com/Aahq8OPVmd

- McLaren (@ McLarenF1) April 9, 2024

Since the summer leap forward last financial year, McLaren has been constantly scrutinizing the top places, whether in qualifying or in the race. However, its drivers are missing a few tenths here and there to compete for pole positions and victories. And yet, Lando Norris and Oscar piastri regularly maximize the performance of their MCL38. However, the English team sometimes suffers from some shortcomings, such as in strategy like the Japanese Grand Prix last weekend where Norris was asked to stop prematurely compromising his potential chances of Top 3.

A story of development

At the start of the year, the observation is very clear: McLaren is behind Red Bull et Classic Ferrari for sale. Internally, we are aware of it but the Oranges know what they have to do, improve performance. A problem which should be resolved with the first developments soon.

“I think it will definitely be a developmental battle this year, explains Andrea Stella. These cars still offer a lot of performance thanks to their potential. I would say that's the main goal for us. »

Developments planned for the MCL38

Now, McLaren is looking forward to the Miami Grand Prix where Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri are expected to receive their upgraded MCL38 for the first time this year. “We should have a good batch of developments in Miami, continues the main team from Woking. Even if it is a Sprint round, we will certainly try to deploy them.” Papayas don't look Aston Martin et Classic Mercedes for sale behind them, they prefer to concentrate on what is happening in front, namely Ferrari.

“This is the first positive point (this first burst of developments, editor’s note), insists Andrea Stella. NWe look ahead and consider that Ferrari is not far away. This is within our development capabilities. We are therefore fully determined to improve the performance of the car to be able to attack Ferrari for second place ». So the hunt is on. The former Scuderia goes even further and doesn't stop himself from dreaming of victory. According to him, this objective would be possible with several developments during the season. The Miami Grand Prix (May 3-5) should give us a first answer.

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