McLaren-Honda has received the green light from the FIA to mount a new, shorter nose on its MP4-30 for next weekend's Austrian Grand Prix.

After a few complications and several failed attempts, McLaren's upgraded component finally passed the mandatory FIA crash tests. The appendix, which appears in line with Mercedes own cut-size design, will hopefully provide a boost in the aerodynamic department for Fernando Alonso and Jenson Button.

While the team's engine woes remain firmly on the table unfortunately, chassis development may be set to accelerate with updates to the MP4-30's wings, floor and engine cover scheduled in the near-term.

The British team has endured to date one of the worst season's in its history with a mere four points scored in seven races.

Click here for the F1 drivers' girlfriends gallery

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter

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.

Recent Posts

Red with purpose – It’s time for Ferrari to bring it home

As the Ferrari factory in Maranello glows in festive crimson, a sense of anticipation hums…

6 hours ago

Norris reveals the quirky private moment his F1 title finally sunk in

Lando Norris had just done the hardest thing in motorsport – winning the Formula 1…

8 hours ago

Howden Ganley, McLaren's third-ever employee

A veteran of 41 Grands Prix starts, Howden Ganley - seen here above hitting a…

9 hours ago

Leclerc’s ‘naughty’ Christmas gift leaves Russell ‘lost for words’

Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc may not have ended the season with a silver trophy in hand,…

9 hours ago

The F1 dinner drama: Why Verstappen didn’t pick up the check

Max Verstappen’s timing out on the race track is surgical, but when it comes to…

10 hours ago

Bearman warns lone rookie Lindblad of ‘tough introduction’ to F1

Oliver Bearman knows exactly what awaits a rookie stepping into Formula 1 – and he’s…

12 hours ago