The prestigious McLaren team has introduced its latest Formula 1 race car, the MCL39, set to compete in the upcoming 2025 season. This vehicle will be driven by Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, with Andrea Stella continuing as team principal. The first event of the new campaign will kick off at the Australian Grand Prix on March 16. McLaren is leading the pack by unveiling its contender early, though it plans to reveal more specifics, including the livery, on February 18. Last season witnessed significant improvements for McLaren, culminating in Norris securing second place in the Drivers’ Championship and the team clinching the Constructors’ Championship.
The design regulations for the 2025 F1 cars largely mirror those from the previous year, with minor adjustments such as stricter rules on DRS designs and wing deflections. A notable addition is the requirement for a driver cooling system if race-day temperatures exceed 88 degrees Fahrenheit. Additionally, the fastest lap bonus point has been eliminated for this season. Despite these changes, McLaren is expected to introduce several innovations with the MCL39, which will be powered by a Mercedes-Benz AMG hybrid unit, delivering approximately 1,000 horsepower.
McLaren’s resurgence in the latter half of last season was nothing short of remarkable. After an initial struggle, both Norris and Piastri emerged as consistent front-runners, achieving multiple podium finishes. Norris even remained a title contender for much of the season. With Piastri’s contributions, McLaren secured its first Constructors’ Championship since 1998. The team’s performance highlighted its ability to adapt and thrive under pressure.
The MCL39 is scheduled to participate in pre-season testing at the Bahrain International Circuit starting on February 26. The 2025 calendar features 24 races, including three stops in the United States—Miami, Austin, and Las Vegas. Fans can look forward to an exciting and competitive season as McLaren aims to build on its recent success with the innovative MCL39.