P1racenews AI automatic summary:
McLaren has admitted that recent upgrades delivering the expected step have provided the team with added “encouragement” going into the 2025 F1 season.
The McLaren team has been cautious in introducing new parts due to concerns about potential issues faced by their competitors. Ferrari, Mercedes, and Red Bull have all struggled with unexpected problems from updates this season. McLaren’s approach of gradual development has paid off in 2024, with the MCL38 being praised as the leading package. As the season nears its end, McLaren introduced updates in the United States and Mexico to maintain their championship lead. These updates, including a revised floor design, met expectations and boosted McLaren’s performance in the short-term and for the upcoming 2025 season. Despite a setback in wet conditions in Brazil, McLaren extended their lead over Ferrari in the Constructors’ Championship, but team boss Andrea Stella emphasized that McLaren will remain focused and not become complacent in their pursuit of the championship. Stella stressed that McLaren is concentrating on their own performance and not prioritizing any specific opponent, acknowledging Ferrari’s strong development work and competitive car for the season. McLaren continues to prioritize the Constructors’ Championship as they aim to end their long title drought.
