Andrea Stella Hails McLaren’s “Unprecedented” Rise After Back-to-Back F1 Title Success

McLaren team principal Andrea Stella believes the Woking-based outfit is establishing itself at the top of Formula 1 at an “unprecedented” pace, following its recent run of championship success.

The team ended a long title drought in 2024 by securing the constructors’ championship at the Abu Dhabi season finale, completing a remarkable turnaround from its struggles early in 2023, when McLaren was fighting near the back of the grid before a series of mid-season upgrades sparked a rapid rise up the order.

Reflecting on the team’s progress, Stella praised the speed at which McLaren has transformed into a consistent title contender.

“We never miss an opportunity to recognise how incredible and positive this season has been,” Stella told media. “As a team, we are establishing ourselves at the top of Formula 1.

“We’ve now won two constructors’ championships in a row. In 2024, it came down to the final race in Abu Dhabi, while this year we secured it with six races still to go. Those facts alone speak volumes about the strength of this team.”

Stella acknowledged that such rapid progress can come with challenges, but emphasized the culture McLaren has built to sustain success.

“We are establishing ourselves at a rate that is unprecedented in F1, and that can sometimes bring bumps along the way,” he said. “Internally, our focus is on progress. It’s not about blame or finger-pointing, but about learning, improving, and coming back stronger.

“The energy within the team is very high, and there is a real sense of pride in demonstrating what we are capable of.”

Drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri have played central roles in McLaren’s resurgence, consistently delivering strong results on track. With both drivers secured on long-term contracts, Stella expressed confidence in the stability of the team’s future.

“When I talk about the team, I absolutely have to mention Lando and Oscar,” Stella added. “They are incredibly supportive at all times. I don’t think we could be in a better position with our driver line-up as we continue this journey together. Whether we execute perfectly or miss an opportunity, we face it as a team.”

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Written by

James Rees

A passionate motorsport journalist from Wales, with over 30 years of love for the sport. A dedicated father of three, working as a content manager, covering the fast-paced world of Formula 1, Formula 2, Formula 3, Formula E, and IndyCar.

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