P1racenews AI automatic summary:
McLaren will not take part in the first day of F1 pre-season testing at Barcelona and may even delay running its new car for the first time until day three
McLaren will not participate in the first day of Formula 1 pre-season testing at Barcelona next week and might delay running their new car for the first time until day three. The team’s approach is different from others as they have not performed a shakedown before the test, aiming to prioritize development time. Team principal Andrea Stella stated that McLaren has been ambitious with their car, but caution is necessary due to the significant rule changes. The MCL40 is currently in Austria undergoing tests, with plans to start testing on day two or day three to allow more time for development. McLaren’s strategy reflects their decision to prioritize launching the car in the most advanced state possible for the competitive season ahead.
