The Woking-based McLaren team has taken the 2024 Formula 1 season by storm, emerging as one of the fastest teams on the grid. Currently leading the constructors’ championship by 20 points over Red Bull, McLaren’s recent surge in performance has sparked controversy and skepticism, with allegations swirling around their MCL38 car.
Sergio Perez, Red Bull’s driver, has voiced his concerns about McLaren’s remarkable pace, accusing the team of running an illegal setup. McLaren’s MCL38 has shown blistering speed since the Miami Grand Prix, often leaving rivals in the dust. The source of their newfound speed? Allegations point to an innovative yet contentious rear wing design that some believe breaches F1 regulations.
Perez didn’t mince words when asked about McLaren’s car: “It’s clear that it’s out of the regulation. It’s an illegal car. But it seems like it is allowed. I’m very surprised,” he stated, expressing disbelief at how the alleged rule-bending setup has gone unchecked by the FIA.
Despite the ongoing controversy, McLaren has capitalized on their performance, with the MCL38 securing two wins in the last three races. The Papaya team, under the leadership of Andrea Stella, has stormed to the top of the constructors’ standings for the first time in over a decade, making them strong favorites to clinch the title.
Stella has acknowledged his team’s accomplishments while staying tight-lipped on the technical details. He revealed that McLaren is pushing ahead with further upgrades to solidify their position, confident in the team’s abilities to fend off their closest rivals. “We’re working hard to stay ahead and bring more to the car,” Stella hinted, avoiding direct comments on the accusations leveled against the MCL38.
As the season heats up, McLaren, Red Bull, and Ferrari find themselves locked in a fierce three-way battle for the championship, with just 50 points separating the top three teams. The allegations surrounding McLaren’s rear wing only add to the drama as the teams gear up for the final stretch of races. Fans can expect a thrilling fight on the track and a storm of controversy off it, as questions about the legality of McLaren’s setup loom large over the 2024 season.
