McLaren’s Formula 1 Journey: Overcoming Low-Speed Corner Struggles Ahead of Canadian Grand Prix
As the Formula 1 calendar approaches the Canadian Grand Prix, McLaren sets its sights on overcoming its long-standing struggles in low-speed corners. The team’s much-anticipated upgrades in 2023 have shown promising results, particularly in high-speed sections, making it a strong contender on select circuits like Qatar. However, its weaknesses in low-speed corners have persisted, denting its overall performance.
The recent Miami Grand Prix saw Lando Norris achieve his maiden grand prix victory, with McLaren’s upgraded car demonstrating impressive speed in high-downforce corners. However, Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz still proved superior in terms of traction out of slow corners. The Imola Grand Prix also highlighted Ferrari’s strength in this area, with Sainz and Charles Leclerc losing significant lap time on the straights due to an incorrect energy deployment strategy.
Interestingly, the Monaco Grand Prix revealed a different narrative, with the McLarens performing well in low-speed sections and outpacing pole-sitter Leclerc through the hairpin and chicane. According to Team Principal Andrea Stella, “It looks like the car we took to Miami behaves well in low speed, almost beyond what was our expectation.“
The upcoming Canadian Grand Prix will be a crucial test for McLaren, given the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve’s mix of low-speed corners and long straights. The team will need to demonstrate its improved low-speed performance while maintaining its high-speed efficiency. Norris remains cautious, acknowledging that Ferrari’s high traction and ride compliance may give it an edge on the bumpy circuit.
Stella concurs, stating that McLaren still has “work to do” in terms of kerb and bump performance. While the resurfaced Montreal circuit is expected to be smoother, the team requires more fundamental development to achieve the same ride and kerbing performance as its competitors.
The next races in Barcelona and Spielberg will provide a true test of McLaren’s development, ensuring that it hasn’t compromised its high-downforce prowess in pursuit of low-speed performance. As the team continues its journey to become a well-rounded competitor, the Canadian Grand Prix will be a crucial milestone in its quest for Formula 1 success.
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