McLaren has experienced significant changes throughout the 2023 Formula 1 season. Andreas Seidl has departed to Sauber, also known as Audi and Stake, while Stella has taken over his position. On the technical side, James Key has been removed from his role as Technical Director and has joined Seidl in leading the Hinwil-based F1 operation. Under Stella’s supervision, McLaren has made remarkable progress since a mid-2023 upgrade to their car, resulting in them finishing the season with the second fastest car, just behind Red Bull. The team has also been actively recruiting and has successfully attracted two senior technical figures from Red Bull and Ferrari. Marshall, formerly of Red Bull, has joined as the Technical Director of Engineering and Design, while Sanchez, who left Ferrari, has taken on the role of Technical Director of Car Concept and Performance. Stella has expressed satisfaction with how Marshall and Sanchez have integrated themselves into the team, praising their approach of respecting the existing systems and striving to improve upon them. Stella believes that their knowledge and experience complement the team’s existing know-how, and he appreciates their personal approach, which has sparked engaging technical conversations. He has observed a positive momentum, energy, and flow of ideas throughout the organization as a result. Although Marshall and Sanchez will have limited involvement in McLaren’s 2024 F1 car, the MCL38, which will be unveiled on February 14, their contributions will be more significant for the 2025 and 2026 seasons, when new regulations will be introduced. Stella has revealed that McLaren is already laying the groundwork for the evolution of the 2024 car into the 2025 model, and they are also working on a project for the 2026 season, which will feature completely new technical regulations. Stella emphasizes the importance of having high-caliber individuals leading their respective technical areas, as it provides McLaren with the capacity, capability, and competence to excel at the top level of Formula 1. The 2023 F1 season concluded with McLaren finishing fourth in the Constructors’ Championship, accumulating 302 points. Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri will continue as the team’s drivers.
Max Verstappen has surpassed Lewis Hamilton once again following his victory at the Emilia Romagna GP. These two drivers have been the most prominent figures in Formula 1...
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