The big Formula 1 team, McLaren, approaches the Hungarian Grand Prix with the introduction of an anticipated upgrade package for its MCL40 race car. This time, the focus is on the rear wing of unusual design, known as the ‘Macarena’ wing, which promises to provide a new boost to the vehicle’s competitiveness.
After a promising start to the season, McLaren has acknowledged that it has fallen significantly behind in terms of aerodynamic developments, resulting in a lag of two to three months compared to its closest competitors. We have news that indicates that this weekend in Budapest, the team will test the new upgrades, which include a redesigned floor coating and other aerodynamic components.
Randy Singh, McLaren’s competition director, commented: “With this upgrade, every step forward is key in such a competitive season as the current one. It’s crucial for us to understand how the new parts work during free practice sessions.” He also expressed the aim to maintain positive momentum as they prepare for the second half of the competition.
Development of the ‘Macarena’ wing
In addition to the upgrade package, McLaren will present its version of the ‘Macarena’ wing, which has been designed to fit into the aerodynamic strategy on screen. Initially, this design was to be tested in Austria, but technical issues forced the team to return the wing to the facilities for additional improvements. Now, with development phases complete, its debut is expected during the free practice sessions in Hungary.
Although there are no immediate plans to implement the wing in this or the next race, a positive reception in Hungary could open the door for its introduction at circuits that require high efficiency like Monza or Baku.
Intense competition in the championship
Despite McLaren’s efforts to close the gap with its rivals, competition in the Formula 1 championship is intense, with teams like Mercedes and Ferrari making notable improvements and countering the long-standing advantage of the British team. McLaren acknowledges that it is difficult to compete under the current performance conditions, but hopes that the new upgrades will be integrated soon and facilitate an increase in their competitiveness in upcoming races.
Written by FormulaRapidaAI
