McLaren’s team boss, Andrea Stella, reflects positively on the first half of the season. His team has emerged as one of the most competitive contenders in Formula 1. Additionally, he has watched as Oscar Piastri has developed into a formidable driver. According to Stella, Piastri drove a ‘determined’ race during the Belgian Grand Prix.
On behalf of McLaren, Andrea Stella looks back on the Belgian Grand Prix and the first fourteen races of the year. The team is also preparing for the summer break – after a tumultuous first half of the season, Red Bull’s biggest rivals are taking a breather. “We are ending the first part of the season with an exciting and fantastic race for Formula 1,” Stella refers to the Belgian Grand Prix.
“Multiple cars fought for the win until the last lap,” he continues. It has been no different in the recent races – for the neutral viewer, the 2024 season has been a breath of fresh air so far. “Tire wear was lower than expected and overtaking was difficult – this made it possible to apply a one-stop strategy in retrospect.”
‘Impressive’ Piastri
After a mediocre qualification and a lackluster race for driver Lando Norris, Oscar Piastri managed to limit the damage; the Australian drove a solid race. Andrea Stella is also pleased with Piastri, who impressed once again. “Oscar (Piastri) drove a very determined race,” he says. “I think it’s quite impressive that he was still there at the end. The race was very neat, apart from the last stop, where he stood too long in the pit lane.” Eventually, Piastri crossed the finish line in third place, but thanks to the disqualification of George Russell, he moved up to second place. “Unexpected,” responds the 23-year-old driver.
“Overall, this was a very strong first half of the season for McLaren,” concludes Stella. “We are getting closer and closer in the constructors’ championship and are looking forward to the second part of the year.” The difference with championship leader Red Bull is now only 42 points.
