P1racenews AI automatic summary:
McLaren began its season in turmoil but successful development throughout the campaign saw it rise up the pecking order and re-lighting the spark that has been missing for several years.
The 2023 Formula 1 season started off worrying for McLaren, as they seemed destined to compete at the back of the field. Their car missed performance targets and was slow and uncompetitive. The departure of Technical Director James Key led to a new structure and a turnaround for McLaren. With a substantial upgrade in Austria, McLaren immediately improved and achieved back-to-back podium results with driver Lando Norris. The team continued to perform well throughout the season, earning a total of nine podiums, including two from rookie Oscar Piastri. The strength of their driver lineup, with Norris and Piastri, gives McLaren a significant advantage. Norris had a strong season and outperformed Piastri, but the Australian rookie showed impressive skills and earned a contract extension until 2026. McLaren’s restructure, including new leadership and personnel, played a crucial role in their season turnaround.
