
via Reuters
Formula One F1 – Bahrain Grand Prix – Bahrain International Circuit, Sakhir, Bahrain – March 3, 2023 McLaren’s Lando Norris REUTERS/Nir Elias

via Reuters
Formula One F1 – Bahrain Grand Prix – Bahrain International Circuit, Sakhir, Bahrain – March 3, 2023 McLaren’s Lando Norris REUTERS/Nir Elias
As the 2023 season unfolds, McLaren’s hopes for a turnaround seem to be fading. The renowned team recently gave big boosts to their troubled MCL60 car, aiming to improve its performance. However, amidst the anticipation, Lando Norris has shared a perspective that adds a sense of intrigue and concern. His candid comments paint a gloomy picture of the team’s future, suggesting that their struggles run deeper than anticipated.
During the Spanish Grand Prix in Barcelona, McLaren experienced yet another disappointing race, leaving the renowned circuit empty-handed. Even if he had managed to lead the race after the first turn, the chances of scoring points remained slim. McLaren’s problems seem to be more pronounced during races compared to qualifying sessions. Norris acknowledges the similarity with Ferrari, another team facing similar struggles, performing better on Saturdays than on race days.

via Reuters
Formula One F1 – Spanish Grand Prix – Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, Barcelona, Spain – June 3, 2023 McLaren’s Lando Norris after qualifying in third place REUTERS/Albert Gea
Despite McLaren’s efforts to improve their troubled MCL60, including the development of a new rear wing and beam wing assembly for the Canadian Grand Prix, race day woes continue to hamper their performance in the 2023 season. The updates, although significant, have not addressed the underlying issues that have plagued the team throughout the year.
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Amidst the optimism surrounding the updates, Lando Norris’s perspective reveals a sobering reality. When asked about the Canadian Grand Prix and whether it could mark a turning point for McLaren, Norris responded with surprising candor, stating, “To be honest, we don’t have a way to go.” This statement unveils the deep concerns within the team and raises questions about the effectiveness of the recent updates.
But considering the rain and McLaren’s performance in Monaco GP, there is still hope. As the car is better on a cold surface. The upcoming races will serve as a litmus test, revealing whether McLaren can overcome their obstacles and reclaim their position.
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But are the updates enough for McLaren?
While McLaren’s recent updates have generated some optimism, Lando Norris sheds light on the complex challenges that the team faces. McLaren’s struggles extend beyond a single weakness, with problems arising particularly in the corners. The car’s performance is further hindered by long corners, amplifying its shortcomings.

USA Today via Reuters
May 6, 2023; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; McLaren driver Lando Norris (4) of Great Britain races out of turn 17 during the third practice for the Miami Grand Prix at Miami International Autodrome. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports
Norris explains that McLaren excels in fast corners, showcasing competitiveness with both high and low levels of downforce. However, the story changes in slow corners, where the MCL60’s performance takes a nosedive. According to Norris, the overall handling of the MCL60 is simply not up to par. It is not merely a matter of lacking 20 downforce points both at the front and rear of the car. The team’s struggles extend to tire management as well.
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Can McLaren’s upcoming major update cure these “diseases” at once? Only time will tell if McLaren can find the way to go and turn their season around.
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