From first to ‘tenth’ in one evening
During the car launch event at the O2 Arena in London, McLaren was the last of the ten teams competing in the upcoming championship to unveil its car. This was due to the schedule set for Formula 1’s 75th anniversary, which followed the reverse order of last season’s Constructors’ standings, meaning the reigning champions revealed their MCL39 last.
Few changes
Those expecting significant aesthetic changes to the car were left disappointed. Once again, McLaren will hit the track in its signature papaya color with black accents, closely resembling last year’s design. “The unveiling of the new MCL39 livery is another milestone in our journey toward racing this season and follows the incredible hard work and dedication of the team in preparing our 2025 challenger,” said Team Principal Andrea Stella after the event. “We expect to see increased competitiveness across the grid as we enter the final year of the current regulations, but we have worked hard to start racing and operating at high standards in everything we do. Our goal is to continue fighting for podiums and race wins in the 2025 FIA Formula 1 Championship.
“I am grateful for the incredible effort put in by the team and especially for the support our commercial partners and passionate fans provided throughout last season during our championship campaign. I look forward to another year where we will create special moments together. The partnership with Mercedes HPP is also incredibly valuable, and thanks to our continuous collective hard work, we will be fully prepared to hit the track for the season ahead.”
Aiming even higher
While McLaren is tasked with defending the title it won after 26 years, Lando Norris is aiming for his first world championship: “It’s fantastic to see the new 2025 livery, which represents an evolution of last year’s championship-winning colors, and I’m sure the fans will appreciate the tradition embedded in the design,” he said. “I can’t wait to get on track in Bahrain for testing. Having spent my entire Formula 1 career with McLaren, it was amazing to be part of the team’s championship victory, and the hunger for success remains strong for everyone. Now, I hope to build on the momentum from the last two seasons to compete for both championships this year.”
The world title will be Norris’ main objective, but his teammate Oscar Piastri shares the same ambition. In a recent press conference, the Australian made it clear that he is ready to fight, starting with his home race in Melbourne, the first round of the season on March 16: “Last year was a really positive second season for me and the team, so it’s great to see the new livery strongly influenced by our 2024 championship-winning design. I’m looking forward to the new season, and racing the MCL39 for the first time this year on my home circuit in Melbourne will be a special moment. I’ve worked hard in the off-season and approach the new year with a lot of optimism and confidence that it can be another special season for everyone involved with McLaren.”
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