Andrea Stella, McLaren’s team principal, has detailed how the Woking-based team has prepared for every possible race scenario at the 2025 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. The goal is clear: leave nothing to chance and aim for both the race victory and the Drivers’ Championship. McLaren is also considering different strategies for Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri to maximize their chances.
Strong qualifying position sets the stage
“Red Bull was the fastest car in qualifying, but we are still in a good position for the race; everything is still in our hands,” Stella said. While the team is poised to take control during the Grand Prix, Stella’s experience reminds him that in Formula 1 nothing should be taken for granted.
McLaren has carefully evaluated all scenarios, including bringing two sets of hard tyres to the race, making them the only top team to do so. “In practice, we observed higher degradation and graining than expected. As a result, our strategy team asked us to save two sets of hard tyres for the race, which we did. This gives us multiple strategic options,” Stella explained.
Strategic options for the race
According to Stella, two main scenarios are possible. If the race leader sets a slow pace—likely Max Verstappen if he leads—the race could be completed with a single stop. However, if the early laps require pushing, two pit stops may become essential. “It’s an open scenario, both due to tyre degradation and strategic reasons,” Stella added.
Starting positions crucial for McLaren
One of the most discussed aspects is the initial approach of Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri after the lights go out. Their positions through the first corner will initially dictate the strategy.
“Considering that entry into Turn 1 is risky on this track, Lando will need to be very cautious. Whether he is on the outside or inside, contact is not uncommon when the corner closes. Lando is in a strong position, so this seems like the correct approach. Regarding Max’s options, I’m not too worried; I expect everything to happen within the bounds of fair play,” Stella explained.
Within the paddock, the general opinion is that Max Verstappen, if he leads into Turn 1, will likely slow the pace to keep the group behind him tight. “We have multiple options—if the pace is very slow, we will act accordingly to avoid being vulnerable to an undercut,” Stella said. If both McLarens find themselves behind the Red Bull at a pace that exposes them to an undercut attempt, one car—most likely Piastri—will pit to block any attacks. “We have a significant advantage because we can act with two drivers,” Stella highlighted.
Ideal outcome: race win and drivers’ championship
The optimal scenario for McLaren is winning the race with Piastri and securing the Drivers’ Championship with Norris. This would balance the results for Oscar while sending a message of success across the team. “I’m very proud of the team,” Andrea Stella concluded. “The energy and pride within the group are high. Lando and Oscar have been fully supportive of the team throughout.”
“I don’t think we could be in a better position with our drivers. Both reacted very well after Las Vegas and Losail, which has been evident in their performance this weekend.” Now comes the final push—one last effort to seize everything the 2025 season has to offer.
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