McLaren team principal Andrea Stella is happy with the MCL38’s trajectory. Although victory was within grasp in Canada for McLaren, the Italian engineer is taking away the positives from last weekend.
There were several important takeaways from the Canadian GP. For McLaren, their performance in Montreal confirms they are highly competitive in low-speed corners. This was once a major weakness but has been eliminated thanks to the team’s upgrades.
After the ninth round of the season, Andrea Stella gave a generally positive assessment:
“As expected, we had an entertaining and exciting Canadian Grand Prix. The field has compressed, and the competition is very tight.
“With the variable weather today, it meant several drivers were favourites for the win at different stages of the race, and it’s important that Lando was one of those.
“This is the key message we take away from Montréal: McLaren is competitive, able to take podiums and compete for victory in different conditions.”
MCLAREN SATISFIED WITH 2024 PROGRESS
Of course, the aim of any F1 team is to win. Considering that a poorly timed Safety Car erased the huge gap Norris had created, the staff at Woking have every right to feel frustrated.
However, at a weekend when they once again outscored Red Bull, Stella wants to focus on the positives.
If his personnel continue to operate at this level, more victories will be forthcoming:
“The timing of the Safety Car was a little unfortunate for Lando because it came when his pace was very strong, and he was in the lead, opening a large gap. But this is racing, and we won’t dwell on it.
“He drove a very good race. Oscar was very strong also. It’s great to see him in his second season fighting for podiums.”
An important element of the team’s progress in 2024 has stemmed from their strong lineup. Oscar Piastri is making steady progress as a driver, especially in race trim.
Despite receiving the first MCL38 upgrades later than his teammate, Piastri has already been a contender for victory this year. With Sergio Perez struggling, the Woking-based operation can benefit from their strong duo:
“Our focus has to be on improving the car and improving our operations so that we can consistently be at the front like we were here in Canada.
“We take home a big haul of points, once again more than our rivals, and consider this a positive outcome.
“My thanks to the team for another big effort this weekend, and on we go to Spain.”
