The Qatar Grand Prix represents the first match point for McLaren, which could clinch the constructors’ title and end a 26-year drought. Undoubtedly, performing well throughout the weekend will be crucial, but on a track that suits the characteristics of the MCL38, achieving a strong result could have a significant impact on their championship pursuit.
At the same circuit where Oscar Piastri claimed his first Formula 1 victory last year, albeit in the sprint race, the goal is to repeat that success, especially since he believes the car has improved compared to 12 months ago. While Red Bull was heavily favored last year due to its superiority in fast corners—an advantage partially retained by the RB20—McLaren hopes the progress made in the past year will be enough to compete at the top and emerge victorious in Qatar.
Piastri acknowledged that Mercedes could pose a threat, as the two W14s might have been more competitive in the race if not for an early collision. Additionally, the cooler temperatures compared to last year could play in McLaren’s favor, according to the Australian.
One factor to consider is that throughout the season, the W15 has struggled with bouncing in fast corners, especially with its latest updates, due to a very stiff and low ride height. On a smooth track like Qatar, which has fewer bumps than recent venues, this issue might benefit Mercedes, helping their drivers gain confidence in the car and perform better in high-speed sections.
When asked if Qatar presents a good opportunity to extend McLaren’s lead over Ferrari in the constructors’ championship, Oscar Piastri was optimistic: “It’s definitely a good opportunity. I think it’s a circuit where we were strong last season. It will be interesting to see who is faster this weekend. I think Mercedes will definitely be in the mix, but our car has evolved a lot since we came here last season. So, yes, we’ll see who’s faster,” the Australian explained.
“But I think we’re quite confident we can have a good result this weekend. Hopefully, we’ll perform well enough not to worry about the Abu Dhabi race at all, but we’ll see how our pace is and aim to have a good weekend.”
McLaren is coming off a tough weekend in Las Vegas, where the car and track characteristics prevented the MCL38 from performing at its best. The team struggled with the low temperatures and the circuit layout, two factors that highlighted some remaining weaknesses in the car, despite its significant progress.
“I don’t think we struggled in Las Vegas just because it was cold. I think there were other issues too. The track layout isn’t one we would have designed if we were tailoring a circuit for our car. So, we’ll wait and see, but I think we’re in good shape here.”
Returning to the championship, the Australian emphasized how special it would be for the team to win the constructors’ championship after 26 years, with their only other title in the interim being Lewis Hamilton’s drivers’ championship in 2008. Moreover, the last decade has been challenging, but the progress made over the past two years, driven by investments and team restructuring, highlights the positive steps taken.
“It would be really special. It’s been about 26 years since the last time we won a constructors’ championship. So it would mean a lot. As drivers, obviously, we have our eyes on the drivers’ championship, but the constructors’ championship also means a great deal,” said Oscar Piastri.
“I also think that, given the context of how my two seasons with the team have gone from being practically at the back of the grid to now leading the constructors’ championship with a good chance of victory, it would be the culmination of a remarkable story. I hope it’s the start of many McLaren successes with many titles in the future, but it would be a very special achievement for everyone.”
“McLaren has had tough seasons over the past decade. So, I think just fighting to get back to the top has been a breath of fresh air for everyone. But capping it off with a championship would mean so much, and I’m sure everyone’s Christmas gifts would be a little nicer too.”
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