Wed Mar 12 05:10:00 UTC 2025: ## McLaren Confident, but Cautious, Heading into 2025 F1 Season
**Bahrain, Bahrain –** McLaren enters the 2025 Formula 1 season with a renewed sense of optimism following a strong 2024 campaign that culminated in their first Teams’ Championship since 1998. However, driver Lando Norris has tempered expectations, predicting a close battle at the front with Ferrari and Red Bull, rather than a significant leap forward.
Speaking during pre-season testing in Bahrain, Norris described the new MCL39 as feeling “similar” to the car he raced in Abu Dhabi last year. While pleased with the baseline, he highlighted the rear of the car as an area needing further development. He acknowledged that while overall speed and downforce have been improved, the team is still working to optimize the rear end’s performance.
Norris emphasized that McLaren’s primary goal for 2025 is to be competitive from the outset, unlike in 2024. He anticipates a tight fight with the leading teams and is focused on consistent performance throughout the season. The team has secured Oscar Piastri on a new multi-year contract extension, further demonstrating their commitment to future success. The news comes amidst other driver market speculation and analysis of the upcoming season.
First Piper 