McLaren team principal Andrea Stella has acknowledged that the team is expecting to face challenges during this weekend’s Formula 1 Chinese Grand Prix. Despite a strong start to the season, McLaren is not optimistic about its prospects at the Shanghai International Circuit due to the track’s unique characteristics. The combination of winding corners, slow-speed hairpins, and a long straight is likely to expose the weaknesses of the MCL38 car. Stella is hopeful that upcoming upgrades to the car will help address the team’s struggles in low-speed situations. However, he recognizes that China may be a race where McLaren needs to limit any potential damage and looks forward to a stronger second half of the season starting from the Miami Grand Prix.
The upcoming Chinese Grand Prix will introduce the first Sprint event of the year 2024. This revised format will allocate teams a mere hour of practice time. Stella, a member of McLaren, believes that the limited track time before the crucial sessions could create opportunities that McLaren should take advantage of. Stella acknowledges that ideally, China would not have been chosen as a Sprint event, as it adds complications. However, since they have no control over the decision, Stella suggests focusing on performing well despite the challenges. Stella also notes that McLaren may have some limitations with their car, so it would be advantageous if their competitors had limited practice as well. Therefore, keeping the practice session short will allow McLaren to maximize their potential. As McLaren enters the fifth round of the campaign, they hold a 35-point lead over engine supplier Mercedes, who are just one point ahead of Aston Martin in fifth place.