McLaren MCL40 finally makes track debut in Barcelona

©McLaren

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©McLaren

The wait is finally over. McLaren’s much-anticipated MCL40 roared to life this Wednesday, marking a historic first outing at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya.

While the team opted to sit out the start of the week, they made an unmistakable statement as the clock approached midday, officially kicking off their three-day testing intensive.

Cloaked in a striking, stealth testing livery, the new machine looked every bit the part of a title defender. At the helm was reigning world champion Lando Norris, tasked with the honor of shaking down the car that carries the hopes of the Woking squad.

Over the coming days, the team will push the MCL40 further, gathering data and fine-tuning performance as they look to hit the ground running in Melbourne in March.

A new chapter begins for team papaya – and the first on-track strides are finally under way.

Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.