McLaren chasing Ferrari for second place

McLaren has been making steady progress for nearly a year. Papai continued to develop their car until they found a place among the best teams on the grid. In 2024, the Woking team is currently third in the standings, led by Lando Norris, already a podium writer (in Australia). Last year, at the same point in the season, the Oranges had 14 points, or 55 less.

Our best start in 13 seasons… but we’re still struggling. 👊 pic.twitter.com/Aahq8OPVmd

– McLaren (@McLarenF1) April 9, 2024

Since the summer leading up to the last financial year, McLaren has been constantly exploring the top positions, whether in qualifying or in the race. However, his drivers are missing ten places here and there to compete for pole position and victory. And yet, Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri increase the performance of their MCL38 from time to time. However, the British team sometimes suffer from lapses in strategy, such as at the Japanese Grand Prix last weekend where Norris was asked to retire early, jeopardizing his chances of a Top 3 finish.

A story of progress

At the beginning of the year, the observation is very clear: McLaren is behind Red Bull and Ferrari. Internally, we know but the Orangemen know what they have to do, improve performance. A problem that should be solved by the first development soon.

“I think it will definitely be a battle of progress this year, Andrea Stella explained. These cars still offer plenty of performance thanks to their capabilities. I can say that is the main goal for us. »

Planned development for MCL38

Now, McLaren is looking forward to the Miami Grand Prix where Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri are expected to receive their improved MCL38 for the first time this year. “We should have a good development group in Miami, continues the main team from Woking. Even if it’s a Sprint circuit, we’ll definitely try to take them.” Papai doesn’t look at Aston Martin and Mercedes behind them, they prefer to focus on what is happening in front, that is Ferrari.

“This is a good first step (this first burst of development, editor’s note), insists Andrea Stella. NWe look ahead and consider that Ferrari is not far away. This is within our development capability. So we are fully committed to improving the performance of the car to be able to attack Ferrari for second place ». So the hunt continues. The former Scuderia goes further and does not hold back from dreaming of victory. According to him, this goal will be possible with several developments during the season. The Miami Grand Prix (May 3-5) should give us the first answer.

ALSO READ > Fernando Alonso and Aston Martin renew their vows, as if it were obvious