McLaren Reveals Critical Flaw Behind Their F1 Struggles

McLaren team principal Andrea Stella identifies a recurring MCL39 weakness as the 2025 season enters a decisive phase. Long straights and heavy braking expose the car before Singapore on October 5.

Azerbaijan underlined the issue. Oscar Piastri retired, Lando Norris finished seventh, and rivals closed in. McLaren still leads with 623 points; Piastri has 324, Norris 299.

[pverogear_custom]Stella: MCL39 is strongest when it can “roll” through medium and high-speed corners.[/fervogear_custom]

The pattern matches Monza and Baku characteristics. Low-downforce efficiency and straight-line braking remain the main deficits, while flowing sections reward McLaren’s strength in roll phases and stability.

That leaves McLaren vulnerable to Red Bull on low-drag layouts. Straight-line stopping and traction phases suit its rival’s package, as seen at Monza and Baku. Red Bull looked more comfortable in those regimes.

Stella still highlights versatility. The MCL39’s broad setup window allowed qualifying contention in Baku, despite the profile mismatch. Recent aero work, including McLaren’s development pieces, supports that adaptability.

Medium and high-speed corners remain McLaren’s sweet spot, exemplified by the flow through Zandvoort’s Turn 1. The contrast to Baku’s stop-start demands is stark, as is to Monaco’s qualifying emphasis, seen during Monaco qualifying.

Singapore should tilt back toward McLaren. The Marina Bay layout prioritizes traction and change of direction, not prolonged braking in a straight line. It offers a chance to deepen the lead. Read more on Singapore GP context.

The run through the United States, Mexico, Brazil, and Las Vegas will mix demands. Las Vegas and Mexico heighten straight-line efficiency, while Brazil’s flow may better suit McLaren’s roll strengths.

The competitive picture remains tight. If rivals exploit low-drag tracks, McLaren’s margin could shrink. Ongoing upgrades must target braking stability, drag, and energy deployment to sustain title control.

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Daniel Miller

Daniel Miller reports on Formula 1 Grand Prix weekends with race-day analysis, team-radio highlights, and point-standings updates. He explains power-unit upgrades, aerodynamic developments, and driver rivalries in straightforward, SEO-friendly language for a global F1 audience.