McLaren's 2023 transformation sets stage for Formula 1 success in 2024

Starting the 2023 campaign with the MCL60, Norris and teammate Oscar Piastri faced early challenges, accumulating a modest 17 points in the initial eight races. However, a pivotal upgrade in Austria propelled them back into podium contention, with a subsequent package in Singapore solidifying McLaren's position as the second-best team behind Red Bull.

Despite achieving nine podiums and a Sprint win in Qatar, Norris and Piastri sensed limitations in the MCL60, particularly in slow-speed corners. Norris, known for his preference to 'U' a corner akin to Jenson Button's style, found himself compelled to 'V' corners with a sharp turn-in to maximize the car's potential.

Expressing frustration over the lingering issue, Norris acknowledged that the substantial progress made in 2023 positions McLaren to finally address these challenges. "The smaller details make a big difference," Norris emphasized, highlighting the team's renewed focus on enhancing driver satisfaction while maintaining speed.

"For what we've done in the season, before we've listened and really focused on the smaller details," Norris explained, "and the small details make a big difference."

While recognizing the complexity of achieving a well-rounded car without compromise, Norris exuded confidence in McLaren's ability to make the necessary adjustments. "After this year, I have more confidence than ever that the team can look into these things that we want as drivers and actually start to chip away at them."

Looking ahead to the 2024 season, Norris is optimistic that McLaren can build on the progress of 2023. As the current season concludes, teams and drivers are set for a break until the new year, with the 2024 season commencing with official F1 pre-season testing at Bahrain International Circuit from February 23 to 25, 2024. 

McLaren aim to leverage the lessons learned in 2023 to create a car that not only performs well on the track but also suits the driving styles of their talented drivers.

 

Read More: Oscar Piastri reflects on surprisingly swift transition to F1 spotlight (planetsport.com)