McLaren reveals its hand with a closed-door shakedown of the MCL39 at the Silverstone circuit. Only a few official images have been released, but from those available, some significant design changes can be seen despite the camouflaged livery.
The updates are limited, largely because McLaren carries over the strongest car package from the 2024 season. At first glance, the MCL39 appears very similar to last year’s version, as the team has retained the front and rear wing configurations introduced in 2024. To see the complete aerodynamic package update, we will have to wait for testing in Bahrain, where teams will no longer need to keep things hidden.
A cautious yet bold MCL39?
Beyond the wings, several interesting technical innovations emerge. The front suspension retains the pull-rod layout but features a revised geometry. The rear arm of the upper wishbone has been significantly lowered at its mounting point, aiming to reduce pitch under braking and improve airflow management. This modification is intended to keep the car’s ride height stable under braking, ensuring the floor operates at a consistent height from the asphalt.
The most noticeable change, however, concerns the cockpit area. The airbox now has an enlarged oval shape to enhance cooling. The sidepods have been redesigned with an elongated air intake extending downward along the chassis sides, improving radiator feed. The distinctive “shark mouth” tray of the sidepods appears to have been retained, albeit slightly modified, now also serving as a mirror support.
The sidepods themselves have also been reshaped, now slimmer while maintaining the ramp-style configuration. At their rear section, McLaren has reintroduced its well-known “bazookas,” now resized and less pronounced to optimize airflow towards the diffuser.
The McLaren MCL39 takes inspiration from Ferrari
An interesting innovation is the adoption of so-called “cobra” elements at the ends of the Halo, an aerodynamic device inspired by Ferrari that helps direct airflow towards the rear of the car.
McLaren has optimized, but not revolutionized, the rear push-rod suspension, as well as the car’s underfloor.
McLaren’s intent is clear: not to overhaul a winning design but to refine micro-areas that proved to be weaknesses in 2024, enhancing the car’s competitiveness without sacrificing the strengths of last season.
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