Innovative elements concealed within McLaren’s latest Formula 1 car for 2025 have been hinted at by the company’s CEO, Zak Brown. This revelation comes as Lando Norris, piloting the new vehicle, set the pace on the first day of F1 testing.
Norris set a pace-setting time of 1:30.340s on the inaugural day of testing at the Bahrain International Circuit. All teams were eager to familiarize themselves with their new machines, as they gear up for the commencement of the upcoming season in Australia.
Despite holding the title of the current world championship-winning constructor, McLaren’s new car appears to have undergone minimal alterations from its predecessor, attributing to its performance throughout the previous season. This is in contrast to the significant updates and revamps undertaken by McLaren’s competitors in their effort to bridge the gap with the Woking-based squad.
Red Bull, for instance, has entirely overhauled their previous model. Similarly, Ferrari’s SF-25 stands distinct from its predecessor as the team seeks its first championship victory since 2008. Mercedes has also implemented several distinguishable modifications to its car, with aspirations for the W16 to consistently challenge for podium finishes and victories.
In a post-testing interview with Sky Sports F1, Brown shed some light on McLaren’s developmental philosophy over the winter. While acknowledging efforts to enhance their established design, he hinted at unnoticed elements incorporated into their latest model. “There is some stuff on there that I don’t think has been totally noticed yet on our car, which I think will happen in due course as everyone gets their photography out,” stated Brown.
The CEO further emphasized the intense competition expected in the upcoming season, noting that every team ended the previous year with a robust race car. “This field is going to be closer than ever,” said Brown.
In an additional twist, the FIA has mandated that all cars must conform to stricter flexing tests for front wings by the 2025 Spanish Grand Prix. This change will undoubtedly necessitate further modifications and innovations from all teams, adding another layer of intrigue to the upcoming season.
In conclusion, as the build-up to the new season continues, the subtle hint from Zak Brown suggests we may yet see further surprises from McLaren’s 2025 Formula 1 car.