McLaren expects to suffer in Shanghai, but sees opportunity

McLaren Team Principal Andrea Stella believes that the Shanghai track is definitely not the most suitable for the MCL38 this year and therefore expects to see his team in action this weekend at the Chinese Grand Prix.

When Formula 1 returns to Shanghai this weekend for the first time since 2019, all the teams on the grid will be in the same boat with very little – if any – data relevant to this fifth round of the 2024 season.

As for McLaren, Andrea Stella believes that the Shanghai track configuration is definitely not the most suitable for the MCL38, however, the Italian thinks that the lack of data for all teams can still provide opportunities.

“Of all the circuits we’ve raced so far this year, it seems that the Shanghai International Circuit might not suit our car. » believes Stella on the eve of the Chinese Grand Prix.

“But we can deal with unpredictable weather. The lack of data for all teams can also provide opportunities and challenges. »

“This weekend will also be our first Sprint event for 2024 and while this may offer more chances to score points, it also adds to the challenge of having to increase our efforts in the first practice session to collect as much data as possible before the race, especially on the circuit which we have not run for five years.

“We will work hard to ensure that we are adequately prepared and able to be excited when opportunities arise. »

Before the Chinese Grand Prix, the McLaren team occupies third place in the constructors’ championship with 69 points since the beginning of the year, 51 less than Scuderia Ferrari.