McLaren team principal Andrea Stella has confirmed Max Verstappen's recent assessment of the MCL39, stating the reigning champion is "correct" in his claim about the car's significant advantage in medium-speed corners. This acknowledgement comes amidst McLaren's highly successful season, where they have secured 11 victories in 14 Grands Prix.
Why it matters
McLaren's dominant performance this year has positioned them with substantial leads in both the Drivers' and Constructors' championships. Understanding the specific strengths of their car, as highlighted by a rival like Max Verstappen, provides insight into their competitive edge and strategic approach to various circuits.
The Details
Stella validated Verstappen's observation by referring to GPS data analysis.
- Data-backed Strength: "When you look at the speed comparison with some other teams, the data says that McLaren can generate the highest mid-corner speed in medium-speed corners," Stella explained.
- Verstappen's Accuracy: He added, "So, I think the assessment of Max is correct."
Where it's less dominant
Despite its overall strength, Stella was quick to point out the car's limitations.
- High-Speed Corners: "If you go on a very high-speed corner like Copse [at Silverstone], for instance, or Pouhon [at Spa], we are not the fastest car," he noted.
- Low-Speed Corners: "Likewise, probably in very low speed, we are not the fastest car."
The big picture
While the MCL39 has specific weaknesses, its unparalleled performance in medium-speed corners, which make up the majority of turns on most championship tracks, is a significant factor in McLaren's current dominance. This strategic advantage allows them to consistently outperform rivals where it matters most.