McLaren Gears Up for “Bigger Changes” in the 2024 Formula 1 Season

Lando Norris Anticipates Significant Developments Following Team’s Improved Competitive Stand

McLaren, following a remarkable surge in its competitive position towards the end of the 2023 Formula 1 season, is poised for substantial changes in the upcoming 2024 season. Lando Norris, one of McLaren’s drivers, anticipates “bigger” transformations after the team faced early challenges with an underdeveloped car in 2023. The introduction of a substantial mid-season upgrade significantly elevated McLaren’s performance, with Norris achieving seven podium finishes and propelling the team to fourth place in the Constructors’ standings.

Despite McLaren’s notable progress last season, it faced a dominant Red Bull team, which secured 21 wins out of 22 races. The Woking squad, considered the most capable of challenging Red Bull’s dominance, looks forward to the 2024 season with heightened prospects. McLaren’s preparations for the upcoming season include leveraging its new wind tunnel facility, and the team has strengthened its ranks with key personnel acquisitions, including David Sanchez and Rob Marshall from rivals Ferrari and Red Bull.

While acknowledging the law of diminishing returns within the current regulation cycle, Norris remains optimistic about McLaren’s improved standing. He believes the team’s enhanced position will allow them to uncover additional gains by focusing on minute details that were challenging to address over the past five years. Norris expressed his expectations for “almost bigger changes than we’ve had over the last year,” emphasizing McLaren’s ability to tackle multiple aspects simultaneously with their improved standing.

Despite the notable strides made in the previous season, Norris admitted that he continued to adapt his driving style to extract optimal results from the team’s updated car. However, he believes McLaren is now better positioned to strike the right balance, delivering a competitive yet compliant package. Norris highlighted the team’s increased capability to work on finer details, enhancing aspects that align with his driving preferences. The goal is to achieve a very good and more consistent car for the upcoming season, focusing on improvements in qualifying, race pace, and overall racing performance.