McLaren highlights Qatar: "Only free practice is fundamental"

McLaren in Qatar on the wings of passion

After two podiums in Suzuka la McLaren is looking for confirmation in Qatar on a circuit with an arrangement that should reward the qualities of the MCL60 again, a car that becomes the first ‘anti-Red Bull’ on traditional tracks. The Woking team also recently unveiled a new wind tunnel and are therefore experiencing a period of prosperity and great enthusiasm considering the last six races of the season. Below are the words of the drivers and team principal in light of the Lusail weekend.

Words by Lando Norris

“The race in Japan was really good, with another second place for me and two podiums for the team. The car had a good pace, which is encouraging ahead of the last six races of the season. The next qualifier is in Qatar. It’s another weekend of Sprint race, so there are more opportunities to score points. It’s only the second time we’ve raced at the Lusail International Circuit, so we will have to learn as much as possible from Friday’s training session. For the last two weeks I have been back at the MTC with the engineers to prepare. We will try to get the most out of the car and hopefully bring home more points.”

Words by Oscar Piastri

“Qatar is another new track for me, but of course this makes it more interesting. Last week I spent some time with my engineers to analyze what we learned in Japan and what we can develop in Qatar. It’s the Sprint weekend, a format that I really like. Hopefully we can start strongly right away, as there are many opportunities to get points.”

Words by Andrea Stella

“Achieving a two-man podium in Japan was not an easy task, but it was possible thanks to the quality of the team’s work in the factory and on the track. We are more determined than ever to keep improving, as we strive to be consistent in the battle at the top of the rankings. The Qatar race is completely new to F1, as we have only visited the Lusail International Circuit once in 2021. However, this is the first time we will bring a new generation of cars here, so everyone will be trying to make the most of the free test on Friday and the Sprint format makes this challenge even more exciting. As always, we aim to score as many points as possible to improve our performance in the Constructors’ Championship.”