McLaren driver, Norris, expressed his anticipation for the long-awaited upgrades that are set to arrive in stages over the next three races. Acknowledging the team’s patience in implementing changes this year, Norris revealed that they have been diligently working on various aspects while awaiting the major package.
Although the initial step taken in Azerbaijan back in April was not expected to yield significant improvements in lap time, hopes are high for the upcoming new package. Norris eagerly looks forward to anything new, recognizing the extensive effort invested by the team.
“We’ve been steadily making progress on several fronts. While we haven’t introduced substantial improvements in terms of pure lap time since the beginning of the year, we did introduce a new floor in Baku, which was more about a change in philosophy than achieving outright performance,” Norris explained.
Nonetheless, the team has been maximizing the opportunities and resources at their disposal, with only a few missed chances along the way. As for the potential benefits of the upcoming upgrades, Norris remains cautiously optimistic, not wanting to get too carried away with expectations.
“It’s not on track just yet, so it’s hard to gauge the exact impact. I’m confident it will be a step forward, but to what extent is the question. So, I don’t want to get too overexcited, as I never do!” Norris remarked.
He eagerly anticipates seeing the culmination of their hard work and discovering the team’s true potential.
Meanwhile, Oscar Piastri, another McLaren driver, hopes that the forthcoming upgrades will propel the team beyond the midfield and enable them to regularly challenge the top four contenders. Acknowledging the current status of McLaren at the top of the midfield on their better days, Piastri eagerly looks forward to the improvements.
“That’s the plan, obviously. We’re looking forward to the upgrades that are coming soon. Hopefully, they’ll make us faster. That’s the goal,” Piastri stated.
Furthermore, Piastri expressed excitement about competing on traditional tracks that he is familiar with. Having primarily raced on street and temporary circuits during his rookie apprenticeship, he appreciates the familiarity and comfort of returning to circuits he knows well.
“The next four circuits are all tracks I’ve been to multiple times,” Piastri mentioned. “It’ll be nice. However, I should note that Barcelona was a similar situation, and our performance wasn’t great. So, it’s not guaranteed that it will be better for me. Knowing the circuits better does provide some comfort heading into the weekend, but it’s similar to what I experienced in Barcelona. Everyone can quickly reach their limits and perform at their best.”
Regarding the upcoming sprint format, which limits teams to only one practice session (FP1) to fine-tune their cars, Piastri acknowledged the challenge it presents. However, he remains optimistic about the upcoming race in Austria since it is a circuit familiar to all drivers, including rookies like himself.
“Yeah, it’ll be tricky. Thankfully, Austria is a circuit we’ve all been to numerous times, even the rookies. That should make things a bit easier since there are fewer corners, and the walls are further away,” Piastri explained.
He also reflected on his experience in junior categories like F3 and F2, where limited practice sessions were the norm. Although it may not be the ideal scenario, Piastri is accustomed to such conditions and remains focused on making the most of the opportunity.
In summary, excitement builds within the McLaren team as they eagerly anticipate the arrival of the long-awaited upgrades, hoping for improved performance and a chance to challenge the top contenders. Both Norris and Piastri approach the upcoming races with cautious optimism and determination to maximize their potential.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about McLaren upgrades
What upgrades is McLaren expecting in the upcoming races?
McLaren is expecting a major package of upgrades that will arrive in stages over the next three races. These upgrades are anticipated to bring improvements in lap time and overall performance.
How patient has McLaren been in implementing changes this year?
McLaren has been patient in making changes this year while waiting for the major package of upgrades. They have been steadily working on other aspects and making the most of the opportunities available.
What was the purpose of the new floor introduced in Baku?
The new floor introduced in Baku was not aimed at achieving immediate performance gains. Instead, it represented a change in philosophy for the team.
What are the drivers’ expectations regarding the upcoming upgrades?
The drivers, such as Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, are cautiously optimistic about the upcoming upgrades. They believe that the upgrades will be a step forward but are unsure of the exact extent of the improvement.
How do the drivers feel about competing on traditional tracks they are familiar with?
The drivers, particularly Oscar Piastri, express excitement about racing on traditional tracks they know well. However, they note that familiarity doesn’t guarantee better performance, as seen in previous races.
How challenging is the sprint format that limits teams to one practice session?
The sprint format, which provides only one practice session (FP1) for teams, presents a challenge. However, drivers like Piastri mention that it is not entirely unfamiliar, as they have experienced similar conditions in junior categories.
What is McLaren’s goal with the upgrades in terms of their competition position?
McLaren aims to move beyond the midfield and regularly challenge the top four contenders with the help of the upcoming upgrades. They hope to elevate their performance and competitiveness in the races.
More about McLaren upgrades
- McLaren triple F1 update to change almost “every single aerodynamic part”
- McLaren seeks further debate over “extreme” Ocon F1 rear wing wobble
- How Haas broke F1’s new team curse
5 comments
One practice session? No sweat for Piastri, he’s used to it. The sprint format gonna be tricky, but hey, they gotta make the most of it. Can’t wait for the action! #OneShotToShine
Norris and Piastri are cautiously optimistic about the upgrades. Can’t blame ’em, you never know how much it’ll improve. But hey, they’ve been working hard, so let’s see what they got! #HardWorkPaysOff
omg sooo excited for the new upgrades!! McLaren gonna be faster and challenge the top guys!!! can’t wait!!! #McLarenUpgrades
McLaren been patient, now they gettin’ those upgrades finally! Gonna be a game-changer, hope they can move up from the midfield. Fingers crossed! #BringTheHeat
Familiar tracks, baby! Piastri gonna feel right at home. But remember, just ’cause you know the track doesn’t mean you’ll nail it. Gotta bring your A-game! #HomeAdvantage