All Formula 1 cars have the same look? That is history now!

For McLaren, it was a successful season. For the first time in years, the team managed to win a race (at Monza). A fourth place in the final classification of the constructors was for the team of Lando Norris and Daniel Ricciardo. For the coming season the expectations are high.

Great confidence

The preparations for 2022 are of course in full swing. The new McLaren passed the necessary crash test at the FIA this month. A first step towards the next goal: at least third place among the constructors. The confidence is great, says the team by Auto, Motor und Sport. Although it is noted that only during the winter tests it will be clear how McLaren compares to the competition. The expectation of Chief Technology Officer James Key is that the development speed will be very high the first weeks.

In 2021, the teams' cars looked pretty similar. According to Key, that could be completely different at the start of next season. "I expect to see different ideas," says Key. "We'll all see what the others have been up to. At the same time, everyone has to first make sure that what was predicted at the factory is actually happening on the track. We will compare strengths and weaknesses. I think starting in 2023, the teams will get closer together under these regulations because the big trends will be replicated after 2022."

More in balance

McLaren wants to get back to the top and everything is being pulled out for that. The team has a new simulator and a new wind tunnel. Ultimately, it should all lead to a better car. "Our goal is to create more balance with the new car," Key says, referring mainly to a more equal feel in the fast and slow corners.