McLaren reveals special name for 2023 F1 charger

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McLaren has tweaked the code of its soon to be revealed 2023 F1 car, naming its contender 'MCL60' to mark the 60th anniversary of the company's foundation.

Under the stewardship of Zak Brown, McLaren switched its cars' nomenclature from their modern-day 'MP4' designation instituted by former team boss Ron Dennis to 'MCL' in 2018.

The fresh lineage started with the team's MCL33 raced that year by Fernando Alonso and Stoffel Vandoorne and continued until last year's MCL36.

Read also: Norris says McLaren must jump forward in 2023, à la Ferrari

So, sixty years on from McLaren's foundation on September 2, 1963 by motorsport legend Bruce McLaren, the Woking-based outfit's 2023 charger will race under the 'MCL60' name.

The new Mercedes-powered car, which will presented next Monday at the team's factory in Woking, will be driven by Lando Norris and rookie Oscar Piastri who replaces Daniel Ricciardo.

Team papaya also has a new team principal this season, with Andrea Stella taking over from Andreas Seidl who has moved to Sauber.

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.