McLaren – 395 laps
Andrea Stella - Team Principal
“Following the conclusion of Pre-Season Testing in Bahrain, we’re encouraged by the MCL40’s reliability and the extensiveness of learning we have achieved with every lap completed. We have successfully signed off our test items and the core functionality and reliability of the car while enabling long runs and systematic familiarisation of setup, aerodynamics, and tyres as well as power unit maximisation. Each day we have been able to add more performance which is pleasing to see, and we now have a clear handle on the car’s potential as we enter the new era of Formula 1.
“One area that continues to be highlighted is that the driver’s role this season under the new regulation is even more challenging, and we’re committed to giving Lando and Oscar the tools to extract the maximum performance. We acknowledge that they will be busier managing the power unit without compromising lap time or race craft, and we’ll continue to work closely with HPP to build further understanding and tools for the management of engine control and exploitation, who have done a good job so far.
“The nine days of pre-season on track in Barcelona and Bahrain has validated our programme and highlighted clear priority areas of learning and development. We will, therefore, collaboratively work through these with the team in Woking to continue our preparation for the first race weekend of the season. There’s more to learn, and we’ll keep developing as the season goes on to enhance our competitiveness. Thank you to everyone at McLaren Mastercard for their great work so far. We now go racing.”
Lando Norris
“A good final day in Bahrain. We found a small chassis issue on the car at lunchtime, which meant our running in the afternoon was delayed. As a result, we didn't get the full race simulation we had planned done, but we were still able to get some important track time, especially with the practice start at the end. Overall, it's been a solid nine days of testing, and we have learned a lot about these new regulations of cars and how to extract performance from them, especially around the new power units.
“A huge thank you to the team for all of their work, which has meant we have set ourselves up well for Australia. I am excited to get racing.”
“That's testing done. A very productive three days this week in Bahrain and an overall nine days of testing ahead of starting the season. Lots and lots learned about these new cars, so feeling in a good place ahead of going to Melbourne.
“There is still lots to unlock as we go through the first Free Practice sessions ahead of lights out, but we've worked through our testing plans well and made good progress across the board. Thank you to everyone in the team for getting us to this point, it's been a huge effort. Next up, Melbourne, my home race. It's always great to be there on home soil, so I am excited to get back out on track and to race the MCL40.”
