The McLaren team has had a difficult start to the season. While the reigning world champions were extremely dominant last year, Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri can barely compete with Mercedes and Ferrari this season. In the run-up to the Japanese GP, team principal Andrea Stella emphasizes the potential of the current platform and the close cooperation with engine supplier Mercedes. McLaren must still be able to fight for wins this season.
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“I think the MCL40 has a lot of potential,” the Italian explained during the official FIA press conference. “At the moment, our car, compared to Ferrari and Mercedes, simply lacks grip. As a result, we’re a bit slower in the corners. Besides, I think that compared to Mercedes, we’re not yet optimizing the engine to its full potential. We’re still learning how to optimize the power source and we’re working closely with Mercedes on that.” Recently, it was suggested that Mercedes – which is currently dominant in 2026 – is withholding important information from customer teams. “Our biggest limitation was in planning,” Stella explained. “It’s been incredibly busy and it’s normal that as a customer you’re still somewhat behind the facts.”
“Together with Mercedes, we’re still learning about the new engine,” he continued. “No information is being withheld and our engineers are working well together,” assured the McLaren team principal. “We’ve won three titles with Mercedes engines over the past two years, so the relationship is excellent. It’s mainly about catching up. As for the chassis, we know exactly what we need to do: implement upgrades that increase aerodynamic efficiency.”
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‘McLaren is stronger than ever’
For now, Stella remains positive about the prospects. “We’re confident that McLaren can compete for podium finishes and wins this season. The team is stronger than ever; the level of expertise and talent has never been higher,” he said proudly. “Besides, Norris and Piastri have never worked together so well. There are plenty of reasons to be optimistic.” The upcoming spring break may also offer an opportunity to catch up. “Let me be clear that we’re taking a break for the wrong reasons,” said Stella, who is aware that the races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia will not take place due to the war in the Middle East.
“That said, the spring break is a welcome interruption,” he continued. “It gives us the opportunity to produce parts and work with Mercedes to see how we can optimize the engine. Our staff can also catch their breath,” Stella noted. “We’re looking back on one of the most intense winters I can remember. Moreover, it promises to be a long season, so it’s good that we ease off the gas. That way we can compete at the front again in Miami.”
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