Andrea Stella Highlights McLaren's Race Potential Despite Finishing Positions

Andrea Stella expressed that the recent race offered a clearer understanding of McLaren's capabilities, despite the team finishing in fifth and seventh places. Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris qualified seventh and eighth, respectively, with both drivers acknowledging the car's potential but noting difficulties in performance.

During the race, both drivers employed a one-stop strategy, with Piastri using hard tires for 41 laps and Norris for 40. While Piastri managed to fend off George Russell for most of the race, Norris climbed to second place before being overtaken by Max Verstappen, Charles Leclerc, and Lewis Hamilton.

Stella remains optimistic about McLaren's competitiveness, suggesting that the car was as fast as Ferrari's during the race. He noted that the one-stop strategy was designed to capitalize on a potential Safety Car, which ultimately did not occur. Looking ahead, Stella mentioned upcoming upgrades for the team, expected to be implemented in Brazil and Las Vegas, aiming to enhance their chances for podium finishes.