Stella: McLaren's Title Win Marks 'Unprecedented' Rate of Progress

McLaren team principal Andrea Stella is celebrating the team's 'unprecedented' rise to the top of Formula 1, following their dominant 2024 constructors' championship victory. He highlights the incredible speed of their turnaround from a backmarker in early 2023 to title contenders, crediting a powerful internal culture. Stella believes the team is establishing itself as a new force in F1 at a rate rarely seen before.

Why it matters:

McLaren's resurgence marks a significant power shift in F1, challenging the recent dominance of teams like Red Bull and Mercedes. This isn't just a single-season fluke; Stella's comments suggest a sustainable, long-term project built on a solid foundation of progress and stability. A strong, culturally-driven McLaren at the front creates a more competitive and exciting grid for fans and rivals alike.

The details:

• The team's dramatic turnaround began mid-2023, transforming from a contender struggling at the back of the grid into a race-winning force that clinched the 2024 title with six races to spare.
• Stella emphasizes a 'culture of progress', focusing on learning from mistakes rather than assigning blame, which he believes is the key to their rapid development.
• Driver Stability: Long-term contracts for Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri provide a crucial foundation. Stella praises their constant support and sees them as integral to witnessing and contributing to the team's growth.
• The team principal acknowledged that such rapid growth can lead to 'bumps on the road,' but the high energy and pride within the squad make him confident in their ability to handle future challenges.

Looking ahead:

While celebrating their success, the focus now shifts to maintaining this high level of performance and navigating the inevitable challenges that come with being at the top. With a strong culture, a stable and talented driver lineup, and immense momentum, McLaren is poised not just to defend its title but to build a lasting legacy at the pinnacle of motorsport.