P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Mark Hughes explains McLaren’s remarkable 2023 turnaround and what it means for 2024
The McLaren team made a remarkable comeback in the Formula 1 season, outperforming rivals Mercedes and Ferrari. They quickly realized the flaws in their original car concept and adapted to the changing technical trends before the season began. McLaren’s critical upgrade in Austria became the turning point of their season, surpassing not only midfield rivals but also Ferrari and Mercedes. Between July and October, McLaren had the second-fastest car on average and even threatened Red Bull in qualifying. This strong performance led to podium finishes and a win for Oscar Piastri, elevating McLaren to a strong fourth place in the championship. The team’s success was attributed to changes in the technical department, including the recruitment of new talent and a focus on aerodynamic performance. The decision to change the car’s architecture around the floor-sidepod area proved crucial in improving their competitiveness.
