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McLaren Admits Defensive Start to F1 Season
27 Feb
Summary
- McLaren expects Ferrari and Mercedes to set the early pace this season.
- Team boss Andrea Stella describes McLaren's initial strategy as 'defensive'.
- Formula One enters a new era with significant regulation changes.
Formula One champions McLaren are preparing for the season's start, with team boss Andrea Stella acknowledging a "defensive" approach against anticipated pacesetters Ferrari and Mercedes. McLaren is defending both drivers' and constructors' titles after a successful previous season.
Pre-season testing in Bahrain and Barcelona showed positive progress for McLaren, with the team completing extensive laps and confirming car reliability and speed improvements. Both drivers, Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, have expressed satisfaction with the MCL40's performance.
Stella indicated that while McLaren, Ferrari, Mercedes, and Red Bull are the leading contenders, Ferrari and Mercedes appear to hold an early advantage. He metaphorically described the initial part of the season as a defensive phase, emphasizing the importance of in-season development.
This season marks a significant shift in Formula One with substantial regulation changes for engines and chassis, increasing the electrical component. Stella highlighted the magnitude of these changes, noting it's the most significant overhaul this century, and stressed the need to ensure the racing spectacle remains understandable and competitive for all fans.




