McLaren revealed their new 2023 car this afternoon at their technology centre in Woking.
The MCL60, named in the mark of the team’s 60th anniversary this year, goes against the naming pattern that has been used over the past few seasons.
McLaren CEO Zak Brown said: “Being one of the oldest teams on the Formula 1 grid and marking our 60th anniversary as a racing team is an excellent achievement.
“We have a wealth of history dating back to when Bruce McLaren first formed McLaren Racing back in 1963, therefore it is appropriate we honour the last six decades through our 2023 competitors name, the MCL60.”
The change in line-up with Daniel Ricciardo being replaced by former F3 and F2 Champion Oscar Piastri, marks a new era for the squad, who now have the youngest pairing on the grid.
Another big change is the promotion of Andrea Stella to team principal replacing Sauber bound Andreas Seidl.
The Italian said that it’s an “honour” to lead McLaren and is looking forward to going racing.
“It’s an honour to lead McLaren Racing into the team’s 60th anniversary season”, said Stella.
“We have a committed and talented group of people at McLaren, and we are all looking forward to taking the MCL60 racing, after the hard work and the efforts over the last months, in all areas of the team.”
He spoke very highly of Piastri who is one of the most exciting talents to enter the grid in recent years.
He said of the Australian: “During our time away from racing, we have enjoyed welcoming Oscar to the McLaren Technology Centre, and we have worked together to build strong relationships and to be fully prepared for the start of his career in Formula 1.
“He has quickly integrated into the team and gained much respect, thanks to his humility, bright intellect, and dedication.”
He also noted how Lando Norris, who is now entering his 5th year in Formula One has taken up more of a leadership role within the team.
“It’s also been great to resume work with Lando, who is now showing the qualities of a leader as he supports the journey of the team.
“Lando and Oscar form such a strong and talented driver line- up and we are very much looking forward to the 2023 season with them at the wheel of the MCL60.”
Norris, who has been one of the standout performers over the past couple of seasons said he feels he can carry positive momentum heading into the second year of the regulations.
“This is my fifth year in Formula 1 and I’m hoping to carry positive momentum into the new season after a year of racing under the new era of regulations”, said the Brit.
“It’s been a good challenge adapting to them and I feel that I’m in a positive position to keep on improving as a driver.
“I’ve enjoyed my journey with the team so far and to be involved in McLaren’s 60th anniversary is a privilege.
“I’ll continue to work hard alongside Oscar throughout his significant year as we look to maximise opportunities to score points.”
His new teammate added that he has had a “productive and enjoyable” start to life at the team.
“The off season has been great for me, and I’ve been working hard to prepare for the upcoming year.
“The time I’ve spent at the factory and in the sim has been enjoyable and productive, and everyone in the team has been welcoming.
“I’ve settled in well and I’m now fully focused on getting out on track in Bahrain.”