McLaren had its most successful season since 2012 the previous year, achieving seven top-three finishes and rising to fourth place in the Constructors’ Championship. McLaren team principal Andrea Stella identified improved rear traction as a significant improvement in their 2024 Formula 1 car compared to its predecessor. McLaren aims to build on the impressive progress made last season, which transformed the team from struggling to score points to consistently challenging for podiums. However, despite the challenging MCL60 proving competitive against Red Bull on high-speed tracks, it still faces difficulties in low-speed sections. Stella acknowledges that tests have revealed advances in rear grip but admits there is still room for improvement. “We have addressed some of the weaknesses,” he commented. “For example, we are now more satisfied with the grip on the rear axle, which was an area we wanted to focus on. Overall, the car has more grip. There are still areas that require further improvements, especially in terms of overall grip, which is the main performance opportunity. We don’t need to make major corrections, but rather increase the grip on the car, mainly through aerodynamic enhancements. However, we have additional room for improvements in terms of mechanical aspects and interaction with the tires. We plan to introduce developments in all three areas throughout the season.” After some imaginative interpretations, Stella was satisfied that the McLaren MCL38 was in line with the team’s expectations based on their simulation tests. “I can say that, in terms of performance, the car delivers what we expected,” he stated. “So, there were no major surprises, which is really good news because there are some innovative elements in the car. I believe the car provides a solid foundation for further development and represents an improvement over last year’s model. However, it is evident that many other teams have also progressed, which is expected. Each week of development brings performance improvements. One team, in particular, seems to have made a significant leap. Unfortunately, it is the team that was already the fastest last year. I would say the midfield group was already quite close last year, and it seems even more competitive this year.” During the presentation of the 2024 car, Stella had warned that McLaren had failed to address certain aspects in time for the launch version of their latest machine. Although he acknowledges that there is potential once these issues are resolved, he admits that Red Bull’s substantial progress may overshadow McLaren’s gains. “In this launch specification, there are certain areas of the car that have evolved significantly compared to last year,” he explained. “Some of these changes are quite noticeable, while others have only seen incremental improvements. However, behind the scenes of our development, we can see that there is a lot of untapped potential that we couldn’t incorporate in time for the launch car. We have confidence in our development process and the concepts we have implemented in the car. But, in the end, it all comes down to how far you are on the journey. Clearly, Red Bull has been ahead on that journey, and they maintain a margin in terms of their position in the development process.
2024
Soccer star Cristiano Ronaldo surprised everyone with his latest move during the match against Barcelona. Ronaldo scored a spectacular goal in the last minute, securing the victory for his team. Fans were amazed by the player’s skill and precision.
The match between Real Madrid and Barcelona was intense from the start. Both teams showed exceptional performance, but it was Ronaldo who shone in the end. With a powerful shot, he hit the goal’s corner, leaving the opposing goalkeeper with no chance to defend.
The crowd went wild with Ronaldo’s goal. The spectators couldn’t believe what they had just witnessed. The entire stadium vibrated with Real Madrid’s victory, and the players celebrated with enthusiasm.
Ronaldo, known for his dedication and talent in soccer, once again showed why he is considered one of the best players in the world. His impressive performance left everyone amazed and eager to see what he will do in his next matches.
With this victory, Real Madrid is getting closer and closer to the championship title. The team is determined to win the trophy and will continue fighting until the end. Fans are confident that Ronaldo and his teammates will lead the team to victory.
There is no doubt that Cristiano Ronaldo is an exceptional player. His skill, strength, and passion for soccer make him a true icon of the sport. Fans can’t wait to see what he will do next and hope he continues to shine on the field.
