McLaren MCL60#Liveries
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{{Use dmy dates|date=December 2023}}
{{Use British English|date=September 2022}}
{{Infobox racing car
| Car_name = McLaren MCL60
| image = FIA F1 Austria 2023 Nr. 4 (2).jpg
| caption = Lando Norris driving an MCL60 during the Austrian Grand Prix
| Image_size = 270px
| Category = Formula One
| Constructor = McLaren
| Designer = James Key (Technical Director, initial specification only)
Peter Prodromou and Neil Houdley (updated specification)
| Predecessor = McLaren MCL36
| Successor = McLaren MCL38
| Team = McLaren F1 Team
| Technical ref = {{Cite web|title=McLaren MCL60 technical specification|url=https://www.mclaren.com/racing/2023/car-launch/mclaren-mcl60-technical-specification/|date=13 February 2023|access-date=13 February 2023|website=McLaren Racing|publisher=McLaren Racing Ltd.|language=en|archive-date=13 February 2023|location=Woking|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230213131140/https://www.mclaren.com/racing/2023/car-launch/mclaren-mcl60-technical-specification/|url-status=live}}
| Chassis = Carbon fibre composite
| Front suspension = Carbon fibre and titanium pullrod suspension legs operating inboard torsion bar and damper system
| Rear suspension = Carbon fibre and titanium pushrod suspension legs operating inboard torsion bar and damper system
| Engine name = Mercedes-AMG F1 M14 E Performance
| Capacity = {{convert|1.6|L|cuin|0|abbr=on}}
| Configuration = direct injection V6 turbocharged engine limited to 15,000 RPM
| Engine position = in a mid-mounted, rear-wheel drive layout
| Electric motor = Mercedes-AMG
Kinetic and thermal energy recovery systems
| Power =
| Battery = Lithium-ion battery
| Gearbox name = McLaren
| Gears = 8-speed + 1 reverse
| Type = sequential seamless semi-automatic transmission operated via paddle shifters
| Differential = with limited slip friction clutch epicyclic differential
| Clutch = Electro-hydraulically operated, carbon multi-plate
| Weight = 798 kg (including driver, excluding fuel)
| Tyres = Pirelli P Zero (dry)
Pirelli Cinturato (wet)
| Brakes = 6 piston calipers, carbon ventilated discs/pads
| Fuel =
| Lubricants =
| Drivers = {{ubl|{{0}}4. Lando Norris|81. Oscar Piastri}}
| Debut = 2023 Bahrain Grand Prix
| Last_event = 2023 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix
| Races = 22
| Podiums = 9
| Fastest_laps = 3
}}
The McLaren MCL60 is a Formula One car designed and constructed by McLaren, initially under the direction of James Key, to compete in the 2023 Formula One World Championship.
The car made its competitive début at the 2023 Bahrain Grand Prix. It was driven by Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, Norris for his fifth season with McLaren and Piastri in his rookie year. The initial specification of the MCL60 proved uncompetitive, exhibiting inefficient and draggy aerodynamic performance and high tyre degradation. Its poor performance led to Key's departure from the team in March 2023, and he was replaced by a new structure of technical directors. Peter Prodromou and Neil Houldey took over the development of the MCL60. An upgrade package delivered at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, the fourth round of the season, was the final development produced under Key's leadership.
Beginning with the Austrian Grand Prix, the ninth round of the championship, the new technical leadership delivered a significant upgrade package to the car, which began a marked improvement in the team's results. Another substantial package was delivered at the Singapore Grand Prix. Once the initial Austrian–British package had been fitted, the MCL60 went on to achieve nine podiums and three fastest laps in Grands Prix. Further, the car achieved two sprint poles and four sprint podiums including one victory. By the season's end, the MCL60 was noted as a capable and competitive all-rounder and the only consistent challenger to Red Bull Racing's dominant RB19. Its remaining shortcomings were primarily its comparatively poorer tyre management and tricky handling. The change in design direction has been praised as highly effective and successful to a degree not seen in modern Formula One and appeared to influence the development programs of several other teams.
Background
= Name =
The car was originally referred to by McLaren and the press as the MCL37,{{Cite web |date=29 December 2022 |title=Our 2022 Formula 1 season in numbers |url=https://www.mclaren.com/racing/inside-the-mtc/our-2022-formula-1-season-numbers/ |url-status=live |location=Woking|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230107045544/https://www.mclaren.com/racing/inside-the-mtc/our-2022-formula-1-season-numbers/ |archive-date=7 January 2023 |access-date=7 January 2023 |website=McLaren Racing |publisher=McLaren Racing Ltd. |language=en |quote=We may not have reached the end of the year yet, but we're already busy beavering away on the MCL37.}} a continuation of the numbering scheme that began in 1981 with the McLaren MP4/1 (although the MP4 prefix was replaced by MCL in 2017 following the departure of Ron Dennis from the team).{{Cite web |date=8 February 2023 |title=McLaren announce name for 2023 F1 car – and it's not what you would expect |url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.mclaren-announce-unexpected-new-name-for-2023-f1-car.1GdRA8PaZC0bwuDXsMsCNv.html |access-date=9 February 2023 |website=Formula1.com |publisher=Formula One Administration |language=en |archive-date=8 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230208212234/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.mclaren-announce-unexpected-new-name-for-2023-f1-car.1GdRA8PaZC0bwuDXsMsCNv.html |url-status=live }} However, McLaren announced that the car would be named the MCL60 to commemorate 60 years since Bruce McLaren founded the team in 1963.{{Cite web |date=8 February 2023 |title=What is McLaren60? |url=https://www.mclaren.com/racing/inside-the-mtc/what-is-mclaren60/|location=Woking |access-date=9 February 2023 |website=McLaren Racing |publisher=McLaren Racing Ltd. |language=en |archive-date=9 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230209020831/https://www.mclaren.com/racing/inside-the-mtc/what-is-mclaren60/ |url-status=live }}
= Development context =
{{Further information|2023 Formula One World Championship#Technical}}
A new generation of technical regulations began in the 2022 season. The MCL36, the MCL60's immediate predecessor, appeared competitive during its first testing appearance yet proved to have a significant issue with brake overheating.{{Cite web |last=Mitchell-Malm |first=Scott |date=19 March 2022 |title=Is McLaren dealing with a blip or a crisis? |url=https://the-race.com/formula-1/is-mclaren-dealing-with-a-blip-or-a-crisis/ |access-date=27 September 2022 |website=The Race |language=en-GB |archive-date=19 March 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220319222825/https://the-race.com/formula-1/is-mclaren-dealing-with-a-blip-or-a-crisis/ |url-status=live }} These issues limited its performance capabilities in the early stages of the season and delayed much of the car's development.{{Cite web |last=Noble |first=Jonathon |date=27 September 2022 |title=McLaren chases "big step" for F1 2023 car to avoid recovery repeat |url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/mclaren-chases-big-step-for-f1-2023-car-to-avoid-recovery-repeat/10374588/ |access-date=27 September 2022 |website=Motorsport.com |publisher=Motorsport Network |language=en |archive-date=26 September 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220926145329/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/mclaren-chases-big-step-for-f1-2023-car-to-avoid-recovery-repeat/10374588/ |url-status=live }}
Then-team principal Andreas Seidl stated in September 2022 that only part of the MCL36's concept would be continued in its successor. Technical director James Key said the team hoped the MCL60 would require less in-season development compared to the MCL36.{{Cite web |last=Mitchell-Malm |first=Scott |date=20 September 2022 |title=McLaren wants to avoid 'aggressive' 2023 F1 development rate |url=https://the-race.com/formula-1/mclaren-wants-to-avoid-aggressive-2023-f1-development-rate/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220922042328/https://the-race.com/formula-1/mclaren-wants-to-avoid-aggressive-2023-f1-development-rate/ |archive-date=22 September 2022 |access-date=27 September 2022 |website=The Race |language=en-GB}} However, Key later revealed that the team had realised in September 2022 that the regulation changes to floor height would have an unavoidable negative impact on the car given its overall design philosophy, and began work on a new concept.{{Cite web |last=Cooper |first=Adam |date=7 March 2023 |title=How a 15mm difference triggered McLaren's F1 2023 woes |url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/how-a-15mm-difference-triggered-mclarens-f1-2023-woes/10440908/ |access-date=8 March 2023 |website=Motorsport.com |publisher=Motorsport Network |language=en |archive-date=13 March 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230313030019/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/how-a-15mm-difference-triggered-mclarens-f1-2023-woes/10440908/ |url-status=live }} However, the new concept had not matured enough to be used at launch and it was delayed for introduction during the early season.
In November 2022, Seidl stated he believed the team's struggles with the MCL36 would have an impact on the MCL60, namely that the lack of testing for the MCL36 and the time required to address its brake issues had delayed the start of development for the MCL60.{{Cite web |last1=Nichol |first1=Jack |last2=Rencken |first2=Dieter |date=1 December 2022 |title=Seidl: 2022 exploited key McLaren weakness |url=https://racingnews365.com/seidl-2022-exploited-key-mclaren-weakness |access-date=5 December 2022 |website=RacingNews365 |language=en |archive-date=5 December 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221205020704/https://racingnews365.com/seidl-2022-exploited-key-mclaren-weakness |url-status=live }} Seidl, who was originally set to leave the team at the end of 2025 for the incoming Audi project, departed in mid-December 2022 to fill the vacancy at Sauber caused by the sudden exit of chief executive officer Frédéric Vasseur.{{Cite web |last=Noble |first=Jonathan |date=13 December 2022 |title=Seidl's McLaren F1 exit fast-tracked after original plan to join Audi in 2026 |url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/seidls-mclaren-f1-exit-fast-tracked-after-original-plan-to-join-audi-in-2026/10411007/ |access-date=14 December 2022 |website=Motorsport.com |publisher=Motorsport Network |language=en |archive-date=14 December 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221214053120/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/seidls-mclaren-f1-exit-fast-tracked-after-original-plan-to-join-audi-in-2026/10411007/ |url-status=live }} Seidl was immediately replaced by Andrea Stella, who had been McLaren's executive director of racing.{{Cite web |date=13 December 2022 |title=McLaren Formula 1 appoints Andrea Stella as new Team Principal with immediate effect |url=https://www.mclaren.com/racing/team/mclaren-formula-1-appoints-andrea-stella-new-team-principal-immediate-effect/ |location=Woking|access-date=14 December 2022 |website=McLaren Racing |publisher=McLaren Racing Ltd. |language=en |archive-date=14 December 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221214023827/https://www.mclaren.com/racing/team/mclaren-formula-1-appoints-andrea-stella-new-team-principal-immediate-effect/ |url-status=live }}
= Initial design and development =
At its launch, the car was considered an evolution of its predecessor, which had itself undergone heavy development during the 2022 season.{{Cite web |last1=Kalinauckas |first1=Alex |last2=Noble |first2=Jonathon |date=14 February 2023 |title=McLaren reveals MCL60 F1 car with Norris, Piastri |url=https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/mclaren-reveals-mcl60-f1-car-with-norris-piastri/10431572/?_kx=CdCZ4qKrC2SzxjS1bVcTB2teL9wHJISwflZfNp5nRZjoKXq_pf0TNhoNYK2lIatU.Vbb5eh |access-date=14 February 2023 |website=Autosport |publisher=Motorsport Network | url-access=limited |language=en |publication-place=London |issn=0269-946X |archive-date=14 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230214091010/https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/mclaren-reveals-mcl60-f1-car-with-norris-piastri/10431572/?_kx=CdCZ4qKrC2SzxjS1bVcTB2teL9wHJISwflZfNp5nRZjoKXq_pf0TNhoNYK2lIatU.Vbb5eh |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |last=Hughes |first=Mark |author-link=Mark Hughes (journalist) |date=13 February 2023 |title=Is it a case of evolution or revolution for McLaren's new MCL60? |url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.tech-analysis-is-it-a-case-of-evolution-or-revolution-for-mclarens-new-mcl60.3oCXTiapuiaKXrglQNxZZB.html |access-date=14 February 2023 |website=Formula1.com |publisher=Formula One Administration |language=en |archive-date=14 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230214091007/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.tech-analysis-is-it-a-case-of-evolution-or-revolution-for-mclarens-new-mcl60.3oCXTiapuiaKXrglQNxZZB.html |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |last=Anderson |first=Gary |author-link=Gary Anderson (motorsport) |date=13 February 2023 |title=Gary Anderson's verdict on McLaren's 2023 F1 car |url=https://the-race.com/formula-1/gary-andersons-verdict-on-mclarens-2023-f1-car/ |access-date=14 February 2023 |website=The Race |language=en-GB |archive-date=14 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230214091009/https://the-race.com/formula-1/gary-andersons-verdict-on-mclarens-2023-f1-car/ |url-status=live }} It retained the unusual front pullrod, rear pushrod suspension layout that was reintroduced with the MCL36. The MCL60 featured tighter sidepod geometry with a more aggressive undercut,{{Cite web |last=Somerfield |first=Matt |date=14 February 2023 |title=How McLaren has optimised MCL60 F1 design cues from Red Bull |url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/mclaren-optimised-mcl60-f1-design-cues-red-bull/10431732/ |access-date=17 February 2023 |website=Motorsport.com |publisher=Motorsport Network |language=en |archive-date=17 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230217132958/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/mclaren-optimised-mcl60-f1-design-cues-red-bull/10431732/ |url-status=live }} partly intended to free up space for ground effect inlet tunnels. The radiator inlet on the engine cover was lengthened, closer to the style of the inlet seen on the 2022 Ferrari F1-75. The floor edge cut-out{{Efn|The cut-out in the floor assists in directing airflow before it reaches the rear tyres.{{Cite web |last1=Somerfield |first1=Mat |last2=Piola |first2=Giorgio |author-link2=Giorgio Piola |date=4 May 2023 |title=The floor changes defining F1's best-of-rest battle |url=https://au.motorsport.com/f1/news/the-floor-changes-defining-f1s-best-of-rest-battle/10464502/ |access-date=17 September 2023 |website=Motorsport.com Australia |publisher=Motorsport Network |language=en |archive-date=24 May 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230524183609/https://au.motorsport.com/f1/news/the-floor-changes-defining-f1s-best-of-rest-battle/10464502/ |url-status=live }}}} was shifted forwards, closer to its positioning on most other teams' cars.{{Cite web |last1=Mark |first1=Hughes |author-link=Mark Hughes (journalist) |last2=Piola |first2=Giorgio |author-link2=Giorgio Piola |date=16 May 2023 |title=McLaren's aggressive solutions to the challenges of 2023 |url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.tech-tuesday-mclarens-aggressive-solutions-to-the-challenges-of-2023.3KCm86jpeE9sqQpJhwTbWY.html |access-date=19 May 2023 |website=Formula1.com |publisher=Formula One Administration |language=en |archive-date=17 May 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230517231234/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.tech-tuesday-mclarens-aggressive-solutions-to-the-challenges-of-2023.3KCm86jpeE9sqQpJhwTbWY.html |url-status=live }}
The team stated that they were confident they had addressed the shortcomings of the MCL36, broadly labelled as aerodynamics and tyre management.{{Cite web |last=Noble |first=Jonathan |date=14 February 2023 |title=McLaren "not entirely happy" with launch-spec 2023 F1 car |url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/mclaren-not-entirely-happy-with-launch-spec-2023-f1-car/10431568/ |access-date=14 February 2023 |website=Motorsport.com |publisher=Motorsport Network |language=en |archive-date=14 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230214091003/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/mclaren-not-entirely-happy-with-launch-spec-2023-f1-car/10431568/ |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |last=Mitchell-Malm |first=Scott |date=13 February 2023 |title='Not entirely happy' McLaren banking on early upgrades already |url=https://the-race.com/formula-1/not-entirely-happy-mclaren-banking-on-early-upgrades-already/ |access-date=14 February 2023 |website=The Race |language=en-GB |archive-date=14 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230214091010/https://the-race.com/formula-1/not-entirely-happy-mclaren-banking-on-early-upgrades-already/ |url-status=live }} Despite this, Stella said the team was "[n]ot entirely happy for the launch car" and intended to introduce substantial upgrades beginning in the fourth round of the season, the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. It was later revealed that these upgrades had been in development since September 2022 when McLaren decided to change design course entirely. Norris said that he had advocated for McLaren to change their design philosophy to prioritise driveability rather than ultimate performance.{{Cite web |last=Kew |first=Matt |date=17 February 2023 |title=Norris wants better behaved McLaren F1 car, not ultimate performance |url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/norris-wants-better-behaved-mclaren-f1-car-not-ultimate-performance/10433281/ |access-date=17 February 2023 |website=Motorsport.com |publisher=Motorsport Network |language=en |archive-date=17 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230217110402/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/norris-wants-better-behaved-mclaren-f1-car-not-ultimate-performance/10433281/ |url-status=live }} He said that certain undesirable design characteristics were persisting in McLaren cars across his four seasons with the team and through several rule changes, but also said that he did not expect to know if the team had successfully addressed this until the pre-season test.{{Cite web |last1=Mitchell-Malm |first1=Scott |last2=Cozens |first2=Jack |date=14 February 2023 |title=Norris has pushed for fundamental McLaren F1 philosophy changes |url=https://the-race.com/formula-1/norris-has-pushed-for-fundamental-mclaren-f1-philosophy-changes/ |access-date=14 February 2023 |website=The Race |language=en-GB |archive-date=14 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230214091007/https://the-race.com/formula-1/norris-has-pushed-for-fundamental-mclaren-f1-philosophy-changes/ |url-status=live }}
The MCL60 was Key's last project at McLaren. He departed the team in March 2023 as part of an organisational restructuring, and the position of executive technical director was split into three departments. Peter Prodromou and Neil Houdley took over work as head of aerodynamic and head of engineering and design, respectively.{{Cite web |last=Medland |first=Chris |date=23 March 2023 |title=Key leaves McLaren, Sanchez returning amid technical restructure |url=https://racer.com/2023/03/23/key-leaves-mclaren-sanchez-returning-amid-technical-restructure/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230324033950/https://racer.com/2023/03/23/key-leaves-mclaren-sanchez-returning-amid-technical-restructure/ |archive-date=24 March 2023 |access-date=24 March 2023 |website=RACER |language=en-US |issn=1066-6060}}
= Liveries =
{{See also|Formula One sponsorship liveries#McLaren}}
{{multiple image
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| image1 = 2023 McLaren MCL60.jpg
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| image2 = MCL60 Stealth Mode Livery.jpg
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| caption2 = The Triple Crown livery used for the Monaco and Spanish Grands Prix (top) and "Stealth Mode" livery used for the Singapore and Japanese Grands Prix (bottom), both pictured on display cars
}}
The MCL60 livery largely resembled the design débuted on the MCL36, but with additional exposed carbon fibre to save weight.{{Cite web |last=Holding |first=Joe |date=13 February 2023 |title=The McLaren MCL60 F1 car celebrates the team's 60th year |url=https://www.topgear.com/car-news/formula-one/mclaren-mcl60-f1-car-celebrates-teams-60th-year |access-date=14 February 2023 |website=Top Gear |publisher=Immediate Media Company |place=London |language=en |issn=1350-9624 |archive-date=15 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230215193311/https://www.topgear.com/car-news/formula-one/mclaren-mcl60-f1-car-celebrates-teams-60th-year |url-status=live }} As with all McLaren Formula One cars since the MCL35, the livery was applied with a vinyl wrap rather than paint, which is more lightweight and aerodynamically efficient compared to painted cars, as well as quicker to prepare.{{Cite web |date=10 February 2023 |title=The finishing touches of car build |url=https://www.mclaren.com/racing/2023/car-launch/finishing-touches-car-build/ |location=Woking|access-date=14 February 2023 |website=McLaren Racing |publisher=McLaren Racing Ltd. |language=en |archive-date=14 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230214091003/https://www.mclaren.com/racing/2023/car-launch/finishing-touches-car-build/ |url-status=live }} The MCL60 featured a new advertising scheme developed by Seamless Digital using e-ink displays, allowing the advertising to be changed at any time.{{Cite web |last=Wood |first=Will |date=14 March 2023 |title=McLaren's rivals look to follow F1's early adopters in on-car digital adverts |url=https://www.racefans.net/2023/03/14/mclarens-rivals-look-to-follow-f1s-early-adopters-in-on-car-digital-adverts/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230325104458/https://www.racefans.net/2023/03/14/mclarens-rivals-look-to-follow-f1s-early-adopters-in-on-car-digital-adverts/ |archive-date=25 March 2023 |access-date=25 March 2023 |website=RaceFans |language=en-GB}} Although the technology debuted on the MCL36 during practice for the 2022 United States Grand Prix, the MCL60 marked its first full-season usage.{{Cite web |last=Liszewski |first=Andrew |date=24 October 2022 |title=McLaren's Putting Kindle Screens on Its Formula 1 Cars |url=https://gizmodo.com/mclaren-s-putting-e-ink-screens-formula-1-cars-ads-1849693462 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230325104455/https://gizmodo.com/mclaren-s-putting-e-ink-screens-formula-1-cars-ads-1849693462 |archive-date=25 March 2023 |access-date=25 March 2023 |website=Gizmodo |publisher=G/O Media}}
For the Monaco and Spanish Grands Prix, the car ran with a special livery celebrating McLaren's achievement of the Triple Crown of Motorsport – McLaren being the only motorsports team to have completed it {{As of|2023|lc=y}}.{{Cite web |last=Edmondson |first=Laurence |date=23 May 2023 |title=McLaren reveals 'triple crown' livery for Monaco and Spain |url=https://www.espn.com.au/f1/story/_/id/37713675/mclaren-reveals-triple-crown-livery-monaco-spain |access-date=23 May 2023 |website=ESPN.com |publisher=ESPN |language=en |archive-date=23 May 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230523225934/https://www.espn.com.au/f1/story/_/id/37713675/mclaren-reveals-triple-crown-livery-monaco-spain |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |last=Elson |first=James |date=23 May 2023 |editor-last=Dunn |editor-first=Joe |title=McLaren's 'Triple Crown' Monaco F1 livery: stories behind the glory |url=https://www.motorsportmagazine.com/articles/single-seaters/f1/mclarens-triple-crown-monaco-f1-livery-stories-behind-the-glory/ |url-access=limited |access-date=8 June 2023 |website=Motor Sport |publisher=Motor Sport Magazine Limited |language=en-GB |publication-place=London |issn=0027-2019 |archive-date=9 June 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230609005852/https://www.motorsportmagazine.com/articles/single-seaters/f1/mclarens-triple-crown-monaco-f1-livery-stories-behind-the-glory/ |url-status=live }} The car was painted in three segments to commemorate McLaren's first win of each component race. The rear of the car was papaya in reference to the McLaren M16C/D that Johnny Rutherford won the 1974 Indianapolis 500 in, the middle was white in tribute to the McLaren MP4/2 that Alain Prost drove when he won the 1984 Monaco Grand Prix, and the front was black in recognition of the McLaren F1 GTR that JJ Lehto, Yannick Dalmas, and Masanori Sekiya drove to victory in the 1995 24 Hours of Le Mans.{{Cite web |date=23 May 2023 |title=McLaren to run one-off 'Triple Crown' livery at Monaco Grand Prix as part of 60th anniversary celebrations |url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.mclaren-to-run-one-off-triple-crown-livery-at-monaco-grand-prix-as-part-of.1L0qis9t214tiz6Rj3cuyN.html |access-date=23 May 2023 |website=Formula1.com |publisher=Formula One Administration |language=en |archive-date=23 May 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230523174650/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.mclaren-to-run-one-off-triple-crown-livery-at-monaco-grand-prix-as-part-of.1L0qis9t214tiz6Rj3cuyN.html |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |last=Kalinauckas |first=Alex |date=23 May 2023 |title=McLaren reveals 'Triple Crown' livery for Monaco and Spanish F1 races |url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/mclaren-reveals-triple-crown-livery-for-monaco-and-spanish-f1-races/10472634/ |access-date=23 May 2023 |website=Motorsport.com |publisher=Motorsport Network |language=en |archive-date=23 May 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230523174244/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/mclaren-reveals-triple-crown-livery-for-monaco-and-spanish-f1-races/10472634/ |url-status=live }}
For the British Grand Prix, in conjunction with sponsor Google Chrome, the MCL60 featured a chrome livery, a tribute to the livery used while Vodafone was the team's title sponsor.{{Cite web |last=Hall |first=Sam |date=3 July 2023 |title=McLaren unveils throwback chrome F1 livery for British GP |url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/mclaren-unveils-throwback-chrome-f1-livery-for-british-gp/10491196/ |access-date=4 July 2023 |website=Motorsport.com |publisher=Motorsport Network |language=en |archive-date=4 July 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230704080411/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/mclaren-unveils-throwback-chrome-f1-livery-for-british-gp/10491196/ |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |last=Saunders |first=Nate |date=3 July 2023 |title=McLaren adds chrome throwback to British GP livery |url=https://www.espn.com/f1/story/_/id/37954171/mclaren-adds-chrome-throwback-british-gp-livery |access-date=4 July 2023 |website=ESPN.com |publisher=ESPN |language=en-US |archive-date=4 July 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230704081125/https://www.espn.com/f1/story/_/id/37954171/mclaren-adds-chrome-throwback-british-gp-livery |url-status=live }}
The car featured another special livery for the Singapore and Japanese Grands Prix, this time predominantly black with papaya orange highlights. The livery was named "Stealth Mode" by McLaren and was run in conjunction with sponsor OKX.{{Cite web |last=Kalinauckas |first=Alex |date=13 September 2023 |title=McLaren reveals F1 livery change for Singapore and Japan |url=https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/mclaren-reveals-f1-livery-change-for-singapore-and-japan/10519508/ |access-date=13 September 2023 |website=Autosport |publisher=Motorsport Network |language=en |archive-date=13 September 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230913125155/https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/mclaren-reveals-f1-livery-change-for-singapore-and-japan/10519508/ |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |last=Coch |first=Mat |date=13 September 2023 |title=Reversed livery for McLaren in Singapore and Japan |url=https://www.speedcafe.com/2023/09/13/reversed-livery-for-mclaren-in-singapore-and-japan/ |access-date=13 September 2023 |website=Speedcafe |language=en-US |archive-date=13 September 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230913125155/https://www.speedcafe.com/2023/09/13/reversed-livery-for-mclaren-in-singapore-and-japan/ |url-status=live }}
For the third year running, the MCL60 featured a special livery for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, which in collaboration with Vuse featured the artwork of an emerging local artist, in this case Nujood Al-Otaibi.{{Cite web |last=Walsh |first=Fergal |date=22 November 2023 |title=McLaren unveil colourful livery for Abu Dhabi GP |url=https://racingnews365.com/mclaren-unveil-colourful-livery-for-abu-dhabi-gp |access-date=24 November 2023 |website=RacingNews365 |language=en |archive-date=24 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231124052448/https://racingnews365.com/mclaren-unveil-colourful-livery-for-abu-dhabi-gp |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |last=Holding |first=Joe |date=23 November 2023 |title=McLaren is signing off from 2023 with this artwork livery |url=https://www.topgear.com/car-news/formula-one/mclaren-signing-2023-artwork-livery |access-date=24 November 2023 |website=Top Gear |publisher=Immediate Media Company |place=London |archive-date=24 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231124052448/https://www.topgear.com/car-news/formula-one/mclaren-signing-2023-artwork-livery |url-status=live }}
Competition and development history
=Pre-season=
Stella stated that the primary goal for the 2023 season was for the team to re-establish itself as the leading midfield team.{{Cite web |last=Cozens |first=Jack |date=14 February 2023 |title=McLaren launches its F1 2023 car with Red Bull-style sidepod |url=https://the-race.com/formula-1/mclaren-launches-mcl60-f1-2023-car/ |access-date=14 February 2023 |website=The Race |language=en-GB |archive-date=14 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230214091009/https://the-race.com/formula-1/mclaren-launches-mcl60-f1-2023-car/ |url-status=live }} The team reiterated during the pre-season test at Bahrain International Circuit that it was not satisfied with the launch specification car,{{Cite web |last=Mitchell-Malm |first=Scott |date=24 February 2023 |title=McLaren's missed its development targets - and it shows |url=https://the-race.com/formula-1/mclarens-missed-its-development-targets-and-its-showing/ |access-date=25 February 2023 |website=The Race |language=en-GB |archive-date=25 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230225060504/https://the-race.com/formula-1/mclarens-missed-its-development-targets-and-its-showing/ |url-status=live }} especially its excessive aerodynamic drag.{{Cite web |last=Noble |first=Jonathan |date=25 February 2023 |title=McLaren's 2023 F1 car hampered by being too draggy |url=https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/mclarens-2023-f1-car-hampered-by-being-too-draggy-/10436138/ |access-date=25 February 2023 |website=Autosport |publisher=Motorsport Network | url-access=limited |language=en}} Piastri said the MCL60 experienced the same limitations as the MCL36, which he tested in the official 2022 post-season test.{{Cite web |last=Cooper |first=Adam |date=12 November 2022 |title=Alpine agrees to early F1 contract exit for Piastri |url=https://au.motorsport.com/f1/news/alpine-agrees-early-contract-exit-piastri/10398474/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221113070323/https://au.motorsport.com/f1/news/alpine-agrees-early-contract-exit-piastri/10398474/ |archive-date=13 November 2022 |access-date=13 November 2022 |website=Motorsport.com Australia |publisher=Motorsport Network |language=en}}
= Opening rounds and Azerbaijani upgrades =
Norris qualified eleventh and Piastri eighteenth for the first race of the season, the Bahrain Grand Prix.{{Cite web |last=Khorounzhiy |first=Valentin |date=5 March 2023 |title=Q1 exit and Norris gap do 'impressive' Piastri a disservice |url=https://the-race.com/formula-1/q1-exit-and-norris-gap-do-impressive-piastri-a-disservice/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230306024420/https://the-race.com/formula-1/q1-exit-and-norris-gap-do-impressive-piastri-a-disservice/ |archive-date=6 March 2023 |access-date=6 March 2023 |website=The Race |language=en-GB}} Ahead of the race, Stella and Norris both agreed that McLaren could out-develop its rivals during the course of the season, saying that the issues the team faced were fixable.{{Cite web |last=Cooper |first=Adam |date=5 March 2023 |title=Stella: McLaren can outdevelop rivals with "alive" MCL60 F1 car |url=https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/stella-mclaren-can-outdevelop-rivals-with-alive-mcl60-f1-car/10439934/ |url-access=limited |access-date=6 March 2023 |website=Autosport |publisher=Motorsport Network |language=en |publication-place=London |archive-date=6 March 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230306024437/https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/stella-mclaren-can-outdevelop-rivals-with-alive-mcl60-f1-car/10439934/ |url-status=live }} During the race, Piastri had risen to twelfth place before his car suffered an electrical issue.{{Cite news |last=Doyle |first=Michael |date=5 March 2023 |title=Oscar Piastri fails to finish Formula 1 Bahrain Grand Prix, with Max Verstappen dominant in victory |language=en-AU |work=ABC News |publisher=Australian Broadcasting Corporation |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-03-06/max-verstappen-wins-f1-bahrain-grand-prix-oscar-piastri-dnf/102029784 |access-date=6 March 2023 |archive-date=5 March 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230305195622/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-03-06/max-verstappen-wins-f1-bahrain-grand-prix-oscar-piastri-dnf/102029784 |url-status=live }} The team attempted to fix the issue by switching steering wheels in the pits, but the fault was located further down the steering column and could not be rectified, meaning Piastri retired on his début.{{Cite web |last1=Kew |first1=Matt |last2=Cleeren |first2=Filip |last3=Cooper |first3=Adam |date=6 March 2023 |title=McLaren reveals Norris and Piastri reliability issues in Bahrain GP |url=https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/mclaren-reveals-norris-and-piastri-reliability-issues/10440344/ |url-access=limited |access-date=6 March 2023 |website=Autosport |publisher=Motorsport Network |language=en |publication-place=London |archive-date=6 March 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230306024419/https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/mclaren-reveals-norris-and-piastri-reliability-issues/10440344/ |url-status=live }} Norris also suffered reliability issues, hampered by a loss of pneumatic pressure from the Mercedes power unit. The issue limited gearbox performance and forced Norris to pit every ten laps or so in order for the pneumatic pressure tank to be topped up. He finished seventeenth and last on track after completing six pit stops, motivated by McLaren's desire to collect additional data on car performance. The result meant the team were classified tenth and last in the World Constructors' Championship (WCC). Despite the reliability issues, Norris stated that he believed the MCL60 was not as far off the pace as some commentators had argued.{{Cite web |last=Mitchell-Malm |first=Scott |date=7 March 2023 |title=The encouraging signs within McLaren's nightmare start |url=https://the-race.com/formula-1/the-encouraging-signs-within-mclarens-nightmare-start/ |access-date=8 March 2023 |website=The Race |language=en-GB |archive-date=15 March 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230315084037/https://the-race.com/formula-1/the-encouraging-signs-within-mclarens-nightmare-start/ |url-status=live }}
The MCL60 featured a new diffuser upgrade and a track-specific rear wing for the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix.{{Cite web |last=Coch |first=Mat |date=18 March 2023 |title=F1 technical updates, Saudi Arabian GP |url=https://www.speedcafe.com/2023/03/18/f1-technical-updates-saudi-arabian-gp/ |access-date=19 March 2023 |website=Speedcafe |language=en-US |archive-date=17 March 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230317182132/https://www.speedcafe.com/2023/03/18/f1-technical-updates-saudi-arabian-gp/ |url-status=live }} Norris was forced to take his second engine of the season after the team determined the unit that failed in the first race could not be reused.{{Cite web |last=Parkes |first=Ian |date=18 March 2023 |title=Norris reveals first Mercedes PU 'finished' |url=https://www.speedcafe.com/2023/03/18/lando-norris-mercedes-pu-finished/ |access-date=19 March 2023 |website=Speedcafe |language=en-US |archive-date=18 March 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230318135930/https://www.speedcafe.com/2023/03/18/lando-norris-mercedes-pu-finished/ |url-status=live }} Piastri qualified for the race in ninth, and started eighth after another driver received a grid penalty.{{Cite web |last=Parkes |first=Ian |date=19 March 2023 |title=Piastri hails 'small margins' for McLaren breakthrough |url=https://www.speedcafe.com/2023/03/19/oscar-piastri-mclaren-breakthrough/ |access-date=19 March 2023 |website=Speedcafe |language=en-US |archive-date=22 March 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230322091939/https://www.speedcafe.com/2023/03/19/oscar-piastri-mclaren-breakthrough/ |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |last=Mitchell-Malm |first=Scott |date=18 March 2023 |title=Norris wasted stronger McLaren with 'mistake I shouldn't make' |url=https://the-race.com/formula-1/norris-wasted-stronger-mclaren-with-mistake-i-shouldnt-make/ |access-date=19 March 2023 |website=The Race |language=en-GB |archive-date=22 March 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230322092030/https://the-race.com/formula-1/norris-wasted-stronger-mclaren-with-mistake-i-shouldnt-make/ |url-status=live }} Norris, meanwhile, clipped a wall and damaged the steering system on his car. The damage could not be repaired by the end of the first stage of qualifying (Q1), leaving him nineteenth on the grid. On the opening lap of the race Piastri and Pierre Gasly collided, causing damage to the front wing of Piastri's car.{{Cite web |last=Cooper |first=Adam |date=20 March 2023 |title=McLaren's Piastri "surprised" by Gasly contact damage in Saudi Arabian GP |url=https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/piastri-surprised-by-gasly-contact-damage-in-saudi-arabian-gp/10446468/ |url-access=limited |access-date=22 March 2023 |website=Autosport |publisher=Motorsport Network |language=en |archive-date=22 March 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230322091943/https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/piastri-surprised-by-gasly-contact-damage-in-saudi-arabian-gp/10446468/ |url-status=live }} The debris from the collision struck Norris' car, requiring both to pit for a new front wing. Piastri finished the race fifteenth and Norris finished seventeenth.{{Cite news |last=Baldwin |first=Alan |date=19 March 2023 |title=Perez wins in Jeddah as Verstappen goes from 15th to second |language=en |work=Reuters |publisher=Thomson Reuters |url=https://www.reuters.com/lifestyle/sports/perez-wins-saudi-gp-verstappen-goes-15th-second-2023-03-19/ |access-date=22 March 2023 |archive-date=22 March 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230322091944/https://www.reuters.com/lifestyle/sports/perez-wins-saudi-gp-verstappen-goes-15th-second-2023-03-19/ |url-status=live }} Piastri left the round classified nineteenth in the World Drivers' Championship (WDC) and Norris in twentieth and last.{{Cite web |last=Shetty |first=Nish |last2=Remmerie |first2=Mathieu |last3=Bernoldi |first3=Enrique |author-link3=Enrique Bernoldi |last4=Alabdali |first4=Hassan |date=2023-03-20 |title=2023 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix - Championship Points |url=https://www.fia.com/sites/default/files/decision-document/2023%20Saudi%20Arabian%20Grand%20Prix%20-%20Championship%20Points.pdf |access-date=2024-08-06 |website=FIA.com |publisher=Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile |page=3 |archive-date=15 May 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230515081114/https://www.fia.com/sites/default/files/decision-document/2023%20Saudi%20Arabian%20Grand%20Prix%20-%20Championship%20Points.pdf |url-status=live }}
At the Australian Grand Prix, McLaren ran a tighter circuit-specific engine cover and introduced new floor fences for the car's diffuser.{{Cite web |last=Coch |first=Mat |date=31 March 2023 |title=F1 technical updates, Australian GP |url=https://www.speedcafe.com/2023/03/31/f1-technical-updates-australian-gp/ |access-date=1 April 2023 |website=Speedcafe |language=en-US |archive-date=1 April 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230401073956/https://www.speedcafe.com/2023/03/31/f1-technical-updates-australian-gp/ |url-status=live }} Norris qualified thirteenth and Piastri sixteenth.{{Cite news |last=Richards |first=Giles |date=1 April 2023 |title=Max Verstappen claims pole for Australian GP but Mercedes roar again |language=en-GB |work=The Guardian |url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2023/apr/01/max-verstappen-claims-pole-for-australian-gp-as-mercedes-roars-into-second-and-third |access-date=1 April 2023 |issn=0261-3077 |archive-date=1 April 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230401073949/https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2023/apr/01/max-verstappen-claims-pole-for-australian-gp-as-mercedes-roars-into-second-and-third |url-status=live }} Piastri said his struggles were a combination of poor car set-up and inexperience. In a chaotic race interrupted by multiple incidents, Norris finished seventh and Piastri ninth.{{Cite web |date=2023-04-02 |title=F1 2023 Australian Grand Prix - Race Results |url=https://racingnews365.com/f1-2023-australian-grand-prix-race-results |access-date=2024-08-06 |website=RacingNews365 |language=en |archive-date=6 June 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230606223341/https://racingnews365.com/f1-2023-australian-grand-prix-race-results |url-status=live }} Both were promoted a place by a penalty for Carlos Sainz Jr. Norris moved up to eighth and Piastri up to thirteenth in the WDC, and the team moved from last to fifth in the WCC.{{Cite web |last=Shetty |first=Nish |last2=Bacquelaine |first2=Loïc |last3=Bernoldi |first3=Enrique |author-link3=Enrique Bernoldi |last4=McMahon |first4=Christopher |date=2023-04-02 |title=2023 Australian Grand Prix - Championship Points |url=https://www.fia.com/sites/default/files/decision-document/2023%20Australian%20Grand%20Prix%20-%20Championship%20Points.pdf |access-date=2024-08-06 |website=FIA.com |publisher=Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile |pages=2,4 |archive-date=22 February 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240222153828/https://www.fia.com/sites/default/files/decision-document/2023%20Australian%20Grand%20Prix%20-%20Championship%20Points.pdf |url-status=live }}
The first significant upgrade to the MCL60 was made to the car for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix: it featured an entirely new floor and a circuit-specific beam wing{{Efn|The beam wing is a secondary aerodynamic device located below the rear wing. It complements the rear wing by creating a low-pressure area at the rear of the car. This accelerates the rate of airflow through the venturi tunnels, increasing the downforce generated by the ground effect.{{Cite web |last=Hughes |first=Mark |date=1 February 2022 |title=How the rear wing of the 2022 car has been designed to be an F1 gamechanger |url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.tech-tuesday-how-the-rear-wing-of-the-2022-car-has-been-designed-to-be-an-f1.70dkHlnyP8DiGDDnMf3tzU.html |access-date=17 September 2023 |website=Formula1.com |publisher=Formula One Administration |language=en |archive-date=28 May 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230528094916/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.tech-tuesday-how-the-rear-wing-of-the-2022-car-has-been-designed-to-be-an-f1.70dkHlnyP8DiGDDnMf3tzU.html |url-status=live }}}} and rear wing.{{Cite web |last=Noble |first=Jonathan |date=28 April 2023 |title=McLaren reveals extent of F1 floor and wing changes for Baku |url=https://au.motorsport.com/f1/news/mclaren-reveals-extent-of-f1-floor-and-wing-changes-for-baku/10461519/ |access-date=28 April 2023 |website=Motorsport.com Australia |publisher=Motorsport Network |language=en |archive-date=1 May 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230501010348/https://au.motorsport.com/f1/news/mclaren-reveals-extent-of-f1-floor-and-wing-changes-for-baku/10461519/ |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |last=Coch |first=Mat |date=28 April 2023 |title=McLaren and Red Bull lead way on post-F1 break upgrades |url=https://www.speedcafe.com/2023/04/28/mclaren-and-red-bull-lead-way-on-post-f1-break-upgrades/ |access-date=30 April 2023 |website=Speedcafe |language=en-US |archive-date=2 May 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230502032341/https://www.speedcafe.com/2023/04/28/mclaren-and-red-bull-lead-way-on-post-f1-break-upgrades/ |url-status=live }} The new floor involved a "radical" redistribution of aerodynamic load across the car's length, with particularly noticeable changes in the area ahead of the rear tyres.{{Cite web |last1=Hughes |first1=Mark |author-link=Mark Hughes (journalist) |last2=Piola |first2=Giorgio |author-link2=Giorgio Piola |date=8 August 2023 |title=How McLaren turned their car's fortunes around |url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.tech-tuesday-how-mclaren-turned-their-cars-fortunes-around-through-the-first.29EC9VMrYJNDe9BwQFs39X.html |access-date=9 August 2023 |website=Formula1.com |publisher=Formula One Administration |language=en |archive-date=11 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230811055827/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.tech-tuesday-how-mclaren-turned-their-cars-fortunes-around-through-the-first.29EC9VMrYJNDe9BwQFs39X.html |url-status=live }} The package was the last developed under Key's leadership, and was the first of three upgrades delivered to the car.{{Cite web |last=Mitchell-Malm |first=Scott |date=27 April 2023 |title=The significance of McLaren's first major F1 upgrade of 2023 |url=https://the-race.com/formula-1/the-significance-of-mclarens-first-major-f1-upgrade-of-2023/ |access-date=28 April 2023 |website=The Race |language=en-GB |archive-date=27 April 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230427191823/https://the-race.com/formula-1/the-significance-of-mclarens-first-major-f1-upgrade-of-2023/ |url-status=live }} Norris qualified seventh but was disappointed not to be fourth, and an unwell Piastri qualified tenth.{{Cite web |last=Kew |first=Matt |date=29 April 2023 |title=Norris: McLaren "in the middle of nowhere" for rest of Baku F1 weekend |url=https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/norris-mclaren-in-the-middle-of-nowhere-for-rest-of-baku-f1-weekend/10462004/ |url-access=limited |access-date=28 April 2023 |website=Autosport |publisher=Motorsport Network |language=en |archive-date=28 April 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230428183640/https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/norris-mclaren-in-the-middle-of-nowhere-for-rest-of-baku-f1-weekend/10462004/ |url-status=live }} In the sprint shootout, Piastri finished eleventh and Norris tenth. However, the team had made a conscious choice to use all sets of softs allocated for Norris and prioritise starting position for the race, which precluded him from participating in the final session of the sprint shootout.{{Cite web |last=Cooper |first=Adam |date=29 April 2023 |title=Explained: Norris and Tsunoda first F1 drivers to take sprint qualifying gamble |url=https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/explained-norris-and-tsunoda-first-f1-drivers-to-take-sprint-qualifying-gamble/10462042/ |url-access=limited |access-date=28 April 2023 |website=Autosport |publisher=Motorsport Network |language=en |archive-date=28 April 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230428183643/https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/explained-norris-and-tsunoda-first-f1-drivers-to-take-sprint-qualifying-gamble/10462042/ |url-status=live }} Piastri finished the sprint tenth and Norris seventeenth.{{Cite web |last=Hart |first=Becky |date=29 April 2023 |title=What the teams said - Sprint day at the 2023 Azerbaijan Grand Prix |url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.what-the-teams-said-sprint-day-in-azerbaijan.5sbKC5ye9PZw25paqykga9.html |access-date=7 November 2023 |website=Formula1.com |publisher=Formula One Administration |language=en |archive-date=7 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231107160315/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.what-the-teams-said-sprint-day-in-azerbaijan.5sbKC5ye9PZw25paqykga9.html |url-status=live }} In the Grand Prix, both drivers pitted immediately before a safety car, and were subsequently trapped in a DRS train until the closing stages of the race.{{Cite web |last=Mitchell-Malm |first=Scott |date=2023-05-01 |title=Azerbaijan GP exposed a Baku myth - and an F1 2023 problem |url=https://www.the-race.com/formula-1/azerbaijan-gp-exposed-a-baku-myth-and-an-f1-2023-problem/ |access-date=2024-08-06 |website=The Race |language=en |archive-date=1 May 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230501231924/https://the-race.com/formula-1/azerbaijan-gp-exposed-a-baku-myth-and-an-f1-2023-problem/ |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |date=2023-04-30 |title=2023 Azerbaijan Grand Prix |url=https://www.mclaren.com/racing/formula-1/2023/azerbaijan-grand-prix/2023-azerbaijan-grand-prix/ |access-date=2024-08-06 |website=McLaren Racing |publisher=McLaren Racing Ltd. |language=en-GB |archive-date=29 September 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230929144140/https://www.mclaren.com/racing/formula-1/2023/azerbaijan-grand-prix/2023-azerbaijan-grand-prix/ |url-status=live }} Norris finished ninth and Piastri finished eleventh. As a result, Norris fell to ninth in the WDC.{{Cite web |last=Shetty |first=Nish |last2=Remmerie |first2=Mathieu |last3=Bernoldi |first3=Enrique |author-link3=Enrique Bernoldi |last4=Solomin |first4=Danil |date=2023-04-30 |title=2023 Azerbaijan Grand Prix - Championship Points |url=https://www.fia.com/sites/default/files/decision-document/2023%20Azerbaijan%20Grand%20Prix%20-%20Championship%20Points.pdf |website=FIA.com |publisher=Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile |page=2 |access-date=6 August 2024 |archive-date=2 May 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230502215632/https://www.fia.com/sites/default/files/decision-document/2023%20Azerbaijan%20Grand%20Prix%20-%20Championship%20Points.pdf |url-status=live }}
Norris qualified sixteenth and Piastri nineteenth for the Miami Grand Prix,{{Cite web |last=Parkes |first=Ian |date=7 May 2023 |title=McLaren still fighting 'fundamental issues' - Norris |url=https://www.speedcafe.com/2023/05/08/lando-norris-mclaren-fighting-problems/ |access-date=19 May 2023 |website=Speedcafe |language=en-US |archive-date=7 May 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230507180123/https://www.speedcafe.com/2023/05/08/lando-norris-mclaren-fighting-problems/ |url-status=live }} the first time both cars had been eliminated in Q1 since the 2018 Brazilian Grand Prix.{{Cite web |last=Straw |first=Edd |date=7 May 2023 |title='Trend emerging' in McLaren's first double Q1 exit since 2018 |url=https://the-race.com/formula-1/trend-emerging-in-mclarens-first-double-q1-exit-since-2018/ |access-date=19 May 2023 |website=The Race |language=en-GB |archive-date=14 May 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230514113902/https://the-race.com/formula-1/trend-emerging-in-mclarens-first-double-q1-exit-since-2018/ |url-status=live }} Nyck de Vries hit Norris from behind on the first lap, leaving the latter with floor damage.{{Cite web |date=9 May 2023 |title=Oscar Piastri reveals he had a 'major failure' on his McLaren just six laps into the Miami GP |url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.piastri-reveals-he-had-a-major-failure-on-his-mclaren-just-six-laps-into-the.4to1LQqPGjUGkhR1swG7Jz.html |access-date=19 May 2023 |website=Formula1.com |publisher=Formula One Administration |language=en |archive-date=17 May 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230517101151/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.piastri-reveals-he-had-a-major-failure-on-his-mclaren-just-six-laps-into-the.4to1LQqPGjUGkhR1swG7Jz.html |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |last=Medland |first=Chris |date=12 May 2023 |title=Miami struggles a 'reality check' for McLaren |url=https://racer.com/2023/05/12/miami-struggles-a-reality-check-for-mclaren/ |access-date=19 May 2023 |website=RACER |language=en-US |issn=1066-6060 |archive-date=12 May 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230512194742/https://racer.com/2023/05/12/miami-struggles-a-reality-check-for-mclaren/ |url-status=live }} Stella estimated that this damage cost Norris between 0.2 and 0.3 seconds per lap worth of downforce. On lap six, Piastri's MCL60 suffered brake-by-wire and energy recovery system faults, issues which affected him throughout the race. Norris finished seventeenth and Piastri nineteenth.{{Cite web |last=Coch |first=Mat |date=8 May 2023 |title=Results: Miami Grand Prix |url=https://www.speedcafe.com/2023/05/08/results-miami-grand-prix/ |access-date=19 May 2023 |website=Speedcafe |language=en-US |archive-date=7 May 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230507210432/https://www.speedcafe.com/2023/05/08/results-miami-grand-prix/ |url-status=live }} Stella stated after the race that the results indicated McLaren needed to focus on developing the car's performance on low-grip surfaces, and in off-brakes, off-throttle periods. The result moved Piastri down to fourteenth in the WDC.{{Cite web |last=Shetty |first=Nish |last2=Perini |first2=Matteo |last3=Sullivan |first3=Danny |author-link3=Danny Sullivan |last4=Dean |first4=Dennis |date=2023-05-07 |title=2023 Miami Grand Prix - Championship Points |url=https://www.fia.com/sites/default/files/decision-document/2023%20Miami%20Grand%20Prix%20-%20Championship%20Points.pdf |access-date=2024-08-06 |website=FIA.com |publisher=Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile |pages=2 |archive-date=29 February 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240229141312/https://www.fia.com/sites/default/files/decision-document/2023%20Miami%20Grand%20Prix%20-%20Championship%20Points.pdf |url-status=live }}
The MCL60 featured a special livery for the Monaco Grand Prix, in recognition of McLaren's completion of the Triple Crown of Motorsport (see {{Section link|2=Liveries|nopage=y}}). The car also featured a revised tunnel inlet to comply with a new technical directive, a revised rear wing endplate, as well as track-specific rear and beam wings.{{Cite web |last=Hughes |first=Mark |author-link=Mark Hughes (journalist) |date=26 May 2023 |title=What Mercedes (and others) have disclosed about Monaco upgrades |url=https://the-race.com/formula-1/what-mercedes-and-others-have-disclosed-about-monaco-upgrades/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230527080650/https://the-race.com/formula-1/what-mercedes-and-others-have-disclosed-about-monaco-upgrades/ |archive-date=27 May 2023 |access-date=27 May 2023 |website=The Race |language=en-GB}} Norris qualified tenth,{{Cite web |last=Coch |first=Mat |date=28 May 2023 |title=Rapid McLaren repair left Norris nervous in Monaco Qualifying |url=https://www.speedcafe.com/2023/05/28/rapid-mclaren-repair-left-norris-nervous-in-monaco-qualifying/ |access-date=4 June 2023 |website=Speedcafe |language=en-US |archive-date=28 May 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230528143921/https://www.speedcafe.com/2023/05/28/rapid-mclaren-repair-left-norris-nervous-in-monaco-qualifying/ |url-status=live }} and Piastri eleventh.{{Cite web |last=Coch |first=Mat |date=27 May 2023 |title=Piastri made 'quite a big improvement' in Monaco Qualifying' |url=https://www.speedcafe.com/2023/05/28/piastri-made-quite-a-big-improvement-in-monaco-qualifying/ |access-date=4 June 2023 |website=Speedcafe |language=en-US |archive-date=28 May 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230528001039/https://www.speedcafe.com/2023/05/28/piastri-made-quite-a-big-improvement-in-monaco-qualifying/ |url-status=live }} Both moved up a place in the race to finish ninth and tenth, respectively.{{Cite web |last=Coch |first=Mat |date=29 May 2023 |title=Drivers made the difference for McLaren in Monaco |url=https://www.speedcafe.com/2023/05/29/drivers-made-the-difference-for-mclaren-in-monaco/ |access-date=4 June 2023 |website=Speedcafe |language=en-US |archive-date=29 May 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230529045057/https://www.speedcafe.com/2023/05/29/drivers-made-the-difference-for-mclaren-in-monaco/ |url-status=live }} Both cars were the fastest on track when wet conditions arrived in the closing stages.{{Cite web |last=Hughes |first=Mark |author-link=Mark Hughes (journalist) |date=4 June 2023 |title=Where McLaren's sudden top-three pace came from |url=https://the-race.com/formula-1/mark-hughes-where-mclarens-sudden-top-three-pace-came-from/ |access-date=4 June 2023 |website=The Race |language=en-GB |archive-date=30 June 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230630034539/https://the-race.com/formula-1/mark-hughes-where-mclarens-sudden-top-three-pace-came-from/ |url-status=live }} The team lost fifth place to Alpine in the WCC, while in the WDC Norris moved down to eleventh and Piastri up to thirteenth.{{Cite web |last=Mayer |first=Tim |author-link=Tim Mayer |last2=Holter |first2=Felix |last3=Sullivan |first3=Danny |author-link3=Danny Sullivan |last4=Calmes |first4=Jean-François |date=2023-05-28 |title=2023 Monaco Grand Prix - Championship Points |url=https://www.fia.com/sites/default/files/decision-document/2023%20Monaco%20Grand%20Prix%20-%20Championship%20Points.pdf |access-date=2024-08-06 |website=FIA.com |publisher=Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile |pages=2,4 |archive-date=22 February 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240222144111/https://www.fia.com/sites/default/files/decision-document/2023%20Monaco%20Grand%20Prix%20-%20Championship%20Points.pdf |url-status=live }}
The car again featured the Triple Crown livery for the Spanish Grand Prix (see {{Section link|2=Liveries|nopage=y}}), as well as reprofiled front brake ducts.{{Cite web |last=Hughes |first=Mark |author-link=Mark Hughes (journalist) |date=2 June 2023 |title=Spain F1 upgrades: Red Bull 'copies' rival, big Ferrari changes |url=https://the-race.com/formula-1/spain-f1-upgrades-red-bull-copies-rival-big-ferrari-changes/ |access-date=4 June 2023 |website=The Race |language=en-GB |archive-date=3 June 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230603094129/https://the-race.com/formula-1/spain-f1-upgrades-red-bull-copies-rival-big-ferrari-changes/ |url-status=live }} Norris qualified in third place.{{Cite web |last=White |first=Megan |date=3 June 2023 |title=Norris had feared Q1 exit before "shock" third in Spanish GP qualifying |url=https://au.motorsport.com/f1/news/norris-had-feared-q1-exit-before-shock-third-in-spanish-gp-qualifying/10478064/ |access-date=4 June 2023 |website=Motorsport.com Australia |publisher=Motorsport Network |language=en |archive-date=3 June 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230603180553/https://au.motorsport.com/f1/news/norris-had-feared-q1-exit-before-shock-third-in-spanish-gp-qualifying/10478064/ |url-status=live }} Piastri qualified tenth, but started ninth after penalties for another driver.{{Cite web |last=Chadband |first=Ian |date=4 June 2023 |title='I just ran out of talent': Piastri annoyed by his qualifying mistake in Spain |url=https://www.smh.com.au/sport/motorsport/i-just-ran-out-of-talent-piastri-annoyed-by-his-qualifying-mistake-in-spain-20230604-p5ddri.html |url-access=limited |access-date=4 June 2023 |website=The Sydney Morning Herald |publisher=Nine Entertainment Co. |language=en |agency=Australian Associated Press |archive-date=30 June 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230630034539/https://www.smh.com.au/sport/motorsport/i-just-ran-out-of-talent-piastri-annoyed-by-his-qualifying-mistake-in-spain-20230604-p5ddri.html |url-status=live }} Norris was struck by Lewis Hamilton on the first lap, and dropped to last place after pitting for a new front wing.{{Cite web |date=4 June 2023 |title=Norris rues 'unlucky' first lap collision with Hamilton but says Spanish GP went 'as expected' after lowly P17 finish |url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.norris-rues-unlucky-first-lap-collision-with-hamilton-but-says-spanish-gp.cgtPtQIMCsw6ntFopyz21.html |access-date=5 June 2023 |website=Formula1.com |publisher=Formula One Administration |language=en |archive-date=5 June 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230605081132/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.norris-rues-unlucky-first-lap-collision-with-hamilton-but-says-spanish-gp.cgtPtQIMCsw6ntFopyz21.html |url-status=live }} He finished seventeenth, and Piastri thirteenth.
McLaren introduced a new rear wing flap and beam wing at the Canadian Grand Prix.{{Cite web |last=Hughes |first=Mark |author-link=Mark Hughes (journalist) |date=16 June 2023 |title=Big Aston Martin changes head Canadian GP upgrade list |url=https://the-race.com/formula-1/major-aston-martin-changes-head-canadian-gp-upgrade-list/ |access-date=19 June 2023 |website=The Race |language=en-GB |archive-date=16 June 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230616215044/https://the-race.com/formula-1/major-aston-martin-changes-head-canadian-gp-upgrade-list/ |url-status=live }} Norris qualified seventh for the race.{{Cite web |date=17 June 2023 |title=Verstappen charges to pole for Canadian GP as Hulkenberg grabs surprise P2 before being hit with grid drop |url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.verstappen-charges-to-pole-for-canadian-gp-as-hulkenberg-grabs-surprise-p2.snbFfMsKnoRZy2J7Rjxjr.html |access-date=19 June 2023 |website=Formula1.com |publisher=Formula One Administration |language=en |archive-date=18 June 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230618135329/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.verstappen-charges-to-pole-for-canadian-gp-as-hulkenberg-grabs-surprise-p2.snbFfMsKnoRZy2J7Rjxjr.html |url-status=live }} Piastri qualified ninth after crashing in the final stage of qualifying (Q3), but started eighth after a penalty for another driver.{{Cite web |last1=Cooper |first1=Adam |last2=Vording |first2=Ronald |date=18 June 2023 |title=Piastri knew first F1 crash would come at some point |url=https://au.motorsport.com/f1/news/piastri-knew-first-f1-crash-would-come-at-some-point/10484539/ |access-date=19 June 2023 |website=Motorsport.com Australia |publisher=Motorsport Network |language=en |archive-date=30 June 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230630034546/https://au.motorsport.com/f1/news/piastri-knew-first-f1-crash-would-come-at-some-point/10484539/ |url-status=live }} Norris finished ninth but received a five-second penalty for driving slowly under the safety car, dropping him to thirteenth.{{Cite web |last=Mitchell-Malm |first=Scott |date=18 June 2023 |title=Why Norris's 'unsportsmanlike behaviour' penalty was strange |url=https://the-race.com/formula-1/why-norriss-unsportsmanlike-behaviour-penalty-was-strange/ |access-date=19 June 2023 |website=The Race |language=en-GB |archive-date=30 June 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230630034540/https://the-race.com/formula-1/why-norriss-unsportsmanlike-behaviour-penalty-was-strange/ |url-status=live }} Piastri finished thirteenth but was promoted to twelfth by Norris' penalty.{{Cite web |date=18 June 2023 |title=Verstappen wins Canadian GP to claim Red Bull's 100th victory and equal Senna's tally |url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.verstappen-wins-canadian-gp-to-claim-red-bulls-100th-victory-and-equal.7A6g45iAe5jqGGUc5k153Y.html |access-date=19 June 2023 |website=Formula1.com |publisher=Formula One Administration |language=en |archive-date=30 June 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230630034540/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.verstappen-wins-canadian-gp-to-claim-red-bulls-100th-victory-and-equal.7A6g45iAe5jqGGUc5k153Y.html |url-status=live }} Piastri fell back to fourteenth in the WDC.{{Cite web |last=Connelly |first=Garry |last2=Remmerie |first2=Mathieu |last3=Enrique |first3=Bernoldi |author-link3=Enrique Bernoldi |last4=Demers |first4=Marcel |date=2023-06-18 |title=2023 Canadian Grand Prix - Championship Points |url=https://www.fia.com/sites/default/files/decision-document/2023%20Canadian%20Grand%20Prix%20-%20Championship%20Points.pdf |access-date=2024-08-06 |website=FIA.com |publisher=Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile |page=2 |archive-date=5 March 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240305041522/https://www.fia.com/sites/default/files/decision-document/2023%20Canadian%20Grand%20Prix%20-%20Championship%20Points.pdf |url-status=live }}
= Austrian–British upgrades and turnaround in form =
The new technical leadership, headed by Prodromou and Houldey, developed a significant upgrade package to the car that included changes to almost all aerodynamic surfaces of the car. Originally, both drivers were meant to receive the first part of the package at the British Grand Prix, but McLaren managed to prepare one set of parts early which was fitted to Norris' car.{{Cite web |last=Coch |first=Mat |date=30 June 2023 |title=No McLaren upgrades for Piastri in Austria |url=https://www.speedcafe.com/2023/06/30/no-mclaren-upgrades-for-piastri-in-austria/ |access-date=30 June 2023 |website=Speedcafe |language=en-US |archive-date=30 June 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230630035056/https://www.speedcafe.com/2023/06/30/no-mclaren-upgrades-for-piastri-in-austria/ |url-status=live }} Approximately half the package was delivered to Norris at the Austrian Grand Prix, with the remainder split roughly evenly between the British and Hungarian Grands Prix. Piastri's car was expected to receive both the Austrian and British packages at the British Grand Prix, bringing both cars back to the same specification.{{Cite web |last1=Straw |first1=Edd |last2=Mitchell-Malm |first2=Scott |date=29 June 2023 |title=Norris-only McLaren upgrade for Austrian GP breaks cover |url=https://the-race.com/formula-1/mclaren-austrian-gp-upgrade-first-images-norris-piastri/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230629165226/https://the-race.com/formula-1/mclaren-austrian-gp-upgrade-first-images-norris-piastri/ |archive-date=29 June 2023 |access-date=30 June 2023 |website=The Race |language=en-GB}} However, only Norris received the British upgrades, while Piastri received the Austrian package.{{Cite web |last=Kew |first=Matt |date=21 July 2023 |title=McLaren delays Hungary F1 upgrade package |url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/mclaren-delays-hungary-f1-upgrade-package-/10498180/ |access-date=21 July 2023 |website=Motorsport.com |publisher=Motorsport Network |language=en |archive-date=1 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230801133557/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/mclaren-delays-hungary-f1-upgrade-package/10498180/ |url-status=live }} The final stage of the package, intended to be introduced in Hungary, was delayed.
File:FIA F1 Austria 2023 Nr. 81 (1).jpg
Norris' car featured extensive changes to the sidepods, bodywork, and floor for the Austrian Grand Prix. Specifically, the sidepod inlet and the underlying cooling elements,{{Cite web |last1=Hughes |first1=Mark |author-link=Mark Hughes (journalist) |last2=Piola |first2=Giorgio |author-link2=Giorgio Piola |date=11 July 2023 |title=McLaren's sensational Silverstone pace explained |url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.tech-tuesday-under-the-hood-of-mclarens-sensational-silverstone-step-change.5wBMbNyOYcjg0Qj1MClptn.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230720135013/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.tech-tuesday-under-the-hood-of-mclarens-sensational-silverstone-step-change.5wBMbNyOYcjg0Qj1MClptn.html |archive-date=20 July 2023 |access-date=20 July 2023 |website=Formula1.com |publisher=Formula One Administration |language=en}} rearview mirrors, halo, floor edge and fences, diffuser, engine cover, and cooling louvres were all updated.{{Cite web |last=Dielhenn |first=James |date=30 June 2023 |title=Revealed: Details of McLaren upgrades for F1 Austrian Grand Prix |url=https://www.crash.net/f1/news/1030106/1/revealed-details-mclaren-upgrades-f1-austrian-grand-prix |access-date=20 July 2023 |website=Crash |language=en |archive-date=2 July 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230702223315/https://www.crash.net/f1/news/1030106/1/revealed-details-mclaren-upgrades-f1-austrian-grand-prix |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |last1=Somerfield |first1=Matt |last2=Piola |first2=Giorgio |author-link2=Giorgio Piola |date=11 July 2023 |title=The 11 changes that have helped turn the McLaren into an F1 rocketship |url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/the-11-changes-that-have-helped-turn-the-mclaren-into-an-f1-rocketship/10494587/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230720135013/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/the-11-changes-that-have-helped-turn-the-mclaren-into-an-f1-rocketship/10494587/ |archive-date=20 July 2023 |access-date=20 July 2023 |website=Motorsport.com |publisher=Motorsport Network |language=en}} In the sprint shootout, Norris qualified third and Piastri qualified seventeenth.{{Cite web |date=1 July 2023 |title=2023 Austrian Grand Prix – Sprint report |url=https://www.mclaren.com/racing/formula-1/2023/austrian-grand-prix/2023-austrian-grand-prix-sprint-report/ |place=Red Bull Ring|publication-place=Woking|access-date=20 July 2023 |website=McLaren Racing |publisher=McLaren Racing Ltd. |language=en-GB |archive-date=5 July 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230705071435/https://www.mclaren.com/racing/formula-1/2023/austrian-grand-prix/2023-austrian-grand-prix-sprint-report/ |url-status=live }} During the sprint, Norris suffered an anti-stall system error and ultimately finished ninth, while Piastri moved up to finish eleventh. Norris qualified fourth and Piastri qualified thirteenth,{{Cite web |last=Dielhenn |first=James |date=2 July 2023 |title=Starting grid for today's F1 Austrian Grand Prix: How the race will begin |url=https://www.crash.net/f1/news/1030223/1/starting-grid-todays-f1-austrian-grand-prix-how-race-will-begin |access-date=20 July 2023 |website=Crash |language=en |archive-date=9 July 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230709033022/https://www.crash.net/f1/news/1030223/1/starting-grid-todays-f1-austrian-grand-prix-how-race-will-begin |url-status=live }} missing Q3 due to a penalty for track limits.{{Cite web |last=Parkes |first=Ian |date=2 July 2023 |title=Piastri demands 'better solution' to end Red Bull Ring chaos |url=https://www.speedcafe.com/2023/07/03/oscar-piastri-mclaren-austrian-gp-red-bull-ring-better-solution-needed/ |access-date=20 July 2023 |website=Speedcafe |language=en-US |archive-date=2 July 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230702235357/https://www.speedcafe.com/2023/07/03/oscar-piastri-mclaren-austrian-gp-red-bull-ring-better-solution-needed/ |url-status=live }} Norris finished fifth and was promoted to fourth after penalties were applied to other drivers.{{Cite web |date=1 July 2023 |title=Norris says McLaren have taken 'a big step forward' |url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.norris-says-mclaren-have-taken-a-big-step-forward-after-surprisingly-good-p5.7wITd76WuxzUlemlckTphl.html |access-date=20 July 2023 |website=Formula1.com |publisher=Formula One Administration |language=en |archive-date=4 July 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230704154230/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.norris-says-mclaren-have-taken-a-big-step-forward-after-surprisingly-good-p5.7wITd76WuxzUlemlckTphl.html |url-status=live }} Piastri, who continued to run the old specification, had a collision with Kevin Magnussen during the race and was forced to pit for a new front wing. He finished seventeenth and was promoted to sixteenth following the penalties.
Further upgrades were introduced for the British Grand Prix, with Piastri's car brought to the Austrian specification. Norris received new rear suspension and rear brake duct geometry, as well as a new front wing and nose cone. The new front wing employed a different method of attaching the wing elements to the endplates, creating a larger space for airflow and more powerful outwash. Aside from performance developments, the MCL60 also featured a one-off chrome livery (see {{Section link|2=Liveries|nopage=y}}). Norris qualified for the race second and Piastri in third.{{Cite web |date=8 July 2023 |title=Norris hails 'insane' run to P2 in qualifying at Silverstone |url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.norris-hails-insane-run-to-p2-in-qualifying-as-team-mate-piastri-backs-him.54JLdtwSGX5ccVRD1vXJ8E.html |access-date=20 July 2023 |website=Formula1.com |publisher=Formula One Administration |language=en |archive-date=20 July 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230720135014/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.norris-hails-insane-run-to-p2-in-qualifying-as-team-mate-piastri-backs-him.54JLdtwSGX5ccVRD1vXJ8E.html |url-status=live }} In the race, Norris overtook polesitter Max Verstappen at the race start and lead the first four laps before Verstappen retook the lead.{{Cite news |last=Richards |first=Giles |date=9 July 2023 |title=Max Verstappen underlines dominance with victory in F1 British Grand Prix |language=en-GB |work=The Guardian |location=Silverstone Circuit |publication-place=London |url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2023/jul/09/max-verstappen-underlines-dominance-with-victory-in-f1-british-grand-prix |access-date=20 July 2023 |issn=0261-3077 |archive-date=10 July 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230710145013/https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2023/jul/09/max-verstappen-underlines-dominance-with-victory-in-f1-british-grand-prix |url-status=live }} He finished the race second. Piastri was denied a podium of his own by an untimely safety car and finished the race fourth.{{Cite web |date=10 July 2023 |title=Piastri focuses on positives despite dashed podium hopes |url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.piastri-focuses-on-positives-of-mclarens-massive-step-forward-despite-safety.6nh9qQlltRuQSKU8cxWv9c.html |access-date=20 July 2023 |website=Formula1.com |publisher=Formula One Administration |language=en |archive-date=10 July 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230710095946/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.piastri-focuses-on-positives-of-mclarens-massive-step-forward-despite-safety.6nh9qQlltRuQSKU8cxWv9c.html |url-status=live }} The result meant McLaren scored more points in the British Grand Prix than all the preceding races in the season combined, allowing them to take back fifth place in the WCC from Alpine.{{Cite web |date=18 July 2023 |title=The key factors in McLaren's quest to maintain their speed after Lando Norris' Silverstone podium |url=https://www.skysports.com/f1/news/12433/12922368/hungarian-gp-the-key-factors-in-mclarens-quest-to-maintain-their-speed-after-lando-norris-silverstone-podium |access-date=20 July 2023 |website=Sky Sports F1 |publisher=Sky Group Limited |language=en |archive-date=20 July 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230720135014/https://www.skysports.com/f1/news/12433/12922368/hungarian-gp-the-key-factors-in-mclarens-quest-to-maintain-their-speed-after-lando-norris-silverstone-podium |url-status=live }} Norris improved to ninth and Piastri to eleventh in the WDC.{{Cite web |last=Mayer |first=Tim |author-link=Tim Mayer |last2=Holter |first2=Felix |last3=Warwick |first3=Derek |author-link3=Derek Warwick |last4=Moffitt |first4=Nicky |date=2023-07-09 |title=2023 British Grand Prix - Championship Points |url=https://www.fia.com/sites/default/files/decision-document/2023%20British%20Grand%20Prix%20-%20Championship%20Points.pdf |access-date=2024-08-06 |website=FIA.com |publisher=Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile |page=2 |archive-date=26 February 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240226085726/https://www.fia.com/sites/default/files/decision-document/2023%20British%20Grand%20Prix%20-%20Championship%20Points.pdf |url-status=live }}
Following the British Grand Prix, Piastri remained at the Silverstone Circuit to drive the MCL60 in wet weather tests for the FIA.{{Cite web |last=Haupt |first=Andreas |date=21 July 2023 |title=Probelauf mit Kotflügeln: Erster Regentest ein Misserfolg |url=https://www.auto-motor-und-sport.de/formel-1/f1-test-kotfluegel-mick-schumacher-mercedes-silverstone/ |access-date=22 July 2023 |website=Auto Motor und Sport |language=de |issn=0005-0806 |archive-date=1 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230801133537/https://www.auto-motor-und-sport.de/formel-1/f1-test-kotfluegel-mick-schumacher-mercedes-silverstone/ |url-status=live }} The MCL60 was run unmodified to provide a reference against the Mercedes-AMG F1 W14 E Performance, which was fitted with experimental spray guards.{{Cite web |last=Straw |first=Edd |date=22 July 2023 |title=First look at prototype F1 car spray guards after initial test |url=https://the-race.com/formula-1/first-look-at-prototype-f1-car-spray-guards-after-initial-test/ |access-date=22 July 2023 |website=The Race |language=en-GB |archive-date=1 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230801133602/https://the-race.com/formula-1/first-look-at-prototype-f1-car-spray-guards-after-initial-test/ |url-status=live }}
= Remaining European rounds =
Piastri's car received the British specification upgrades, bringing both cars back to the same specification for the Hungarian Grand Prix as the final stage of upgrades was delayed. Norris qualified third and Piastri qualified fourth.{{Cite news |last=Richards |first=Giles |date=22 July 2023 |title=Lewis Hamilton takes shock pole position for Hungarian F1 Grand Prix |language=en-GB |work=The Observer |location=Hungaroring |publication-place=London |url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2023/jul/22/lewis-hamilton-takes-shock-pole-position-for-hungarian-f1-grand-prix |access-date=24 July 2023 |issn=0029-7712 |oclc=50230244 |archive-date=1 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230801133531/https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2023/jul/22/lewis-hamilton-takes-shock-pole-position-for-hungarian-f1-grand-prix |url-status=live }} Although Norris moved up to finish second, Piastri suffered floor damage and reduced rear downforce and finished fifth.{{Cite web |last1=Noble |first1=Jonathan |last2=Kew |first2=Matt |date=23 July 2023 |title=McLaren insists Norris Hungary F1 strategy call not favouritism |url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/mclaren-insists-norris-hungary-f1-strategy-call-not-favouritism/10499355/ |access-date=24 July 2023 |website=Motorsport.com |publisher=Motorsport Network |language=en |archive-date=1 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230801133531/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/mclaren-insists-norris-hungary-f1-strategy-call-not-favouritism/10499355/ |url-status=live }} Norris moved up to eighth in the WDC.{{Cite web |last=Shetty |first=Nish |last2=Holter |first2=Felix |last3=Liuzzi |first3=Vitantonio |author-link3=Vitantonio Liuzzi |last4=Herczeg |first4=Lajos |date=2023-07-23 |title=2023 Hungarian Grand Prix - Championship Points |url=https://www.fia.com/sites/default/files/decision-document/2023%20Hungarian%20Grand%20Prix%20-%20Championship%20Points.pdf |access-date=2024-08-06 |website=FIA.com |publisher=Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile |page=2 |archive-date=18 July 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240718113829/https://www.fia.com/sites/default/files/decision-document/2023%20Hungarian%20Grand%20Prix%20-%20Championship%20Points.pdf |url-status=live }}
McLaren ran a circuit-specific rear wing and beam wing for the Belgian Grand Prix.{{Cite web |last=Medland |first=Chris |date=28 July 2023 |title=Technical updates: 2023 Belgian Grand Prix |url=https://racer.com/2023/07/28/technical-updates-2023-belgian-grand-prix/ |access-date=29 July 2023 |website=RACER |language=en-US |issn=1066-6060 |archive-date=1 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230801133534/https://racer.com/2023/07/28/technical-updates-2023-belgian-grand-prix/ |url-status=live }} Piastri qualified sixth for the race and Norris, who "completely destroyed" the floor of the car in an error in Q1, qualified seventh.{{Cite web |last=Cleeren |first=Filip |date=28 July 2023 |title=Norris "completely destroyed the floor" in F1 Belgian GP qualifying |url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/norris-completely-destroyed-the-floor-in-f1-belgian-gp-qualifying/10501398/ |access-date=29 July 2023 |website=Motorsport.com |publisher=Motorsport Network |language=en |archive-date=1 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230801134135/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/norris-completely-destroyed-the-floor-in-f1-belgian-gp-qualifying/10501398/ |url-status=live }} Piastri was promoted a place on the grid due to a penalty for another driver.{{Cite web |last=Jackson |first=Kieran |date=28 July 2023 |title=F1 grid: Starting positions for Belgian Grand Prix |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/f1/f1-grid-positions-belgian-hamilton-verstappen-spa-b2383132.html |access-date=29 July 2023 |website=The Independent |language=en |publication-place=London |issn=1741-9743 |oclc=185201487 |archive-date=1 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230801134052/https://www.independent.co.uk/f1/f1-race-time-today-schedule-results-spa-b2384445.html |url-status=live }} Piastri qualified second for the sprint,{{Cite web |last=Kalinauckas |first=Alex |date=29 July 2023 |title=Verstappen pips Piastri to sprint pole in delayed session |url=https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/f1-belgian-gp-shootout/10501668/ |access-date=11 August 2023 |website=Autosport |publisher=Motorsport Network |archive-date=1 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230801151046/http://www.autosport.com/f1/news/f1-belgian-gp-shootout/10501668/ |url-status=live }} and led several laps in the rain-shortened race. He finished second in the sprint. Norris qualified fifth for the sprint and finished seventh, but was promoted to sixth after penalties for another driver.{{Cite web |date=29 July 2023 |title=Verstappen overhauls Piastri in rain-hit Sprint race at Spa-Francorchamps |url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.verstappen-overhauls-piastri-in-rain-hit-sprint-race-at-spa-francorchamps.51CSySa51ml8ci1Cc9C36n.html |access-date=11 August 2023 |website=Formula1.com |publisher=Formula One Administration |archive-date=29 July 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230729193707/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.verstappen-overhauls-piastri-in-rain-hit-sprint-race-at-spa-francorchamps.51CSySa51ml8ci1Cc9C36n.html |url-status=live }} In the race, Piastri was involved in a first-lap incident with Carlos Sainz Jr. and retired with suspension damage. McLaren, who were expecting wet conditions, found that they had loaded the car with too much downforce for a dry race,{{Cite web |last=Cooper |first=Adam |date=30 July 2023 |title=Norris concedes McLaren downforce level too high at Spa ahead of F1 grand prix |url=https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/norris-concedes-mclaren-downforce-level-too-high-at-spa/10502133/ |access-date=11 August 2023 |website=Autosport |publisher=Motorsport Network |language=en |archive-date=4 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230804162718/https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/norris-concedes-mclaren-downforce-level-too-high-at-spa/10502133/ |url-status=live }} and Norris was running as low as seventeenth before recovering ten positions to finish in seventh.{{cite web |last=Kalinauckas |first=Alex |date=30 July 2023 |title=Verstappen dominates despite grid drop to lead Red Bull 1-2 |url=https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/f1-belgian-gp-verstappen-dominates-despite-grid-drop-to-lead-red-bull-1-2-/10502320/ |website=Autosport |publisher=Motorsport Network |access-date=9 August 2023 |archive-date=3 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230803104420/https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/f1-belgian-gp-verstappen-dominates-despite-grid-drop-to-lead-red-bull-1-2-/10502320/ |url-status=live }}
The car remained at the Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps after the Belgian Grand Prix to take part in a two-day test for Formula One's sole tyre supplier, Pirelli.{{Cite web |last=Cooper |first=Adam |date=1 August 2023 |title=Why Aston and McLaren are testing F1 Pirellis that may never race |url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/why-aston-and-mclaren-are-testing-f1-pirellis-that-may-never-race/10502973/ |access-date=1 August 2023 |website=Motorsport.com |publisher=Motorsport Network |language=en |archive-date=1 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230801134052/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/why-aston-and-mclaren-are-testing-f1-pirellis-that-may-never-race/10502973/ |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |last=Cooper |first=Adam |date=25 July 2023 |title=Vandoorne to drive Aston Martin F1 car in Pirelli tyre test at Spa |url=https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/vandoorne-to-drive-aston-martin-f1-car-in-pirelli-tyre-test-at-spa/10500093/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230801134052/https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/vandoorne-to-drive-aston-martin-f1-car-in-pirelli-tyre-test-at-spa/10500093/ |archive-date=1 August 2023 |access-date=1 August 2023 |website=Autosport |publisher=Motorsport Network |language=en}} Despite the rain, Piastri completed 47 laps on the first day of testing, and Norris completed 40 on the second day.{{Cite web |last=Cooper |first=Adam |date=2 August 2023 |title=Vandoorne gets first Aston Martin F1 run in wet Pirelli Spa test |url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/vandoorne-gets-first-aston-martin-f1-run-in-wet-pirelli-spa-test/10503530/ |access-date=3 August 2023 |website=Motorsport.com |publisher=Motorsport Network |language=en |archive-date=3 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230803091954/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/vandoorne-gets-first-aston-martin-f1-run-in-wet-pirelli-spa-test/10503530/ |url-status=live }}
For the Dutch Grand Prix, McLaren ran a circuit-specific beam wing and rear wing designed for Circuit Zandvoort's drag range.{{Cite web |last=Kew |first=Matt |date=25 August 2023 |title=Mercedes, Aston Martin reveal latest F1 upgrades ahead of Dutch GP |url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/mercedes-aston-martin-reveal-latest-f1-upgrades-ahead-of-dutch-gp/10511166/ |access-date=25 August 2023 |website=Motorsport.com |publisher=Motorsport Network |language=en |archive-date=25 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230825150040/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/mercedes-aston-martin-reveal-latest-f1-upgrades-ahead-of-dutch-gp/10511166/ |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |last=Parkes |first=Ian |date=25 August 2023 |title=Dutch GP upgrades revealed |url=https://www.speedcafe.com/2023/08/25/dutch-grand-prix-car-upgrades/ |access-date=26 August 2023 |website=Speedcafe |language=en-US |archive-date=26 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230826030909/https://www.speedcafe.com/2023/08/25/dutch-grand-prix-car-upgrades/ |url-status=live }} For the race, Norris qualified second and Piastri qualified eighth.{{Cite news |last=Richards |first=Giles |date=26 August 2023 |title=Max Verstappen denies Lando Norris to claim F1 Dutch Grand Prix pole |language=en-GB |work=The Observer |location=Zandvoort |publication-place=London |url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2023/aug/26/max-verstappen-denies-lando-norris-to-claim-f1-dutch-grand-prix-pole |access-date=2 September 2023 |issn=0029-7712 |archive-date=2 September 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230902060823/https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2023/aug/26/max-verstappen-denies-lando-norris-to-claim-f1-dutch-grand-prix-pole |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |last=Kew |first=Matt |date=27 August 2023 |title=How close was Norris to Dutch F1 pole without 'worst' end to lap? |url=https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/gps-analysis-how-close-was-norris-to-dutch-f1-pole-without-worst-end-to-lap/10512146/ |access-date=2 September 2023 |website=Autosport |publisher=Motorsport Network |language=en |archive-date=2 September 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230902060820/https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/gps-analysis-how-close-was-norris-to-dutch-f1-pole-without-worst-end-to-lap/10512146/ |url-status=live }} Unpredictable wet conditions and poor strategy contributed to Norris finishing seventh and Piastri ninth,{{Cite web |last=Coch |first=Mat |date=30 August 2023 |title=McLaren rues missed Dutch GP podium |url=https://www.speedcafe.com/2023/08/30/mclaren-rues-missed-dutch-gp-podium/ |access-date=2 September 2023 |website=Speedcafe |language=en-US |archive-date=2 September 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230902060821/https://www.speedcafe.com/2023/08/30/mclaren-rues-missed-dutch-gp-podium/ |url-status=live }} with McLaren starting a review of strategic communication within the team as a result.{{Cite web |last=Mitchell-Malm |first=Scott |date=31 August 2023 |title=McLaren still vulnerable despite fashioning urgent Monza wing |url=https://the-race.com/formula-1/mclaren-still-vulnerable-despite-fashioning-urgent-monza-wing/ |access-date=2 September 2023 |website=The Race |language=en-GB |archive-date=2 September 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230902060825/https://the-race.com/formula-1/mclaren-still-vulnerable-despite-fashioning-urgent-monza-wing/ |url-status=live }} Piastri fell to twelfth in the WDC.{{Cite web |last=Mayer |first=Tim |author-link=Tim Mayer |last2=Holter |first2=Felix |last3=Warwick |first3=Derek |author-link3=Derek Warwick |date=2023-08-27 |title=2023 Dutch Grand Prix - Championship Points |url=https://www.fia.com/sites/default/files/decision-document/2023%20Dutch%20Grand%20Prix%20-%20Championship%20Points.pdf |access-date=2024-08-06 |website=FIA.com |publisher=Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile |page=2 |archive-date=27 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230827183659/https://www.fia.com/sites/default/files/decision-document/2023%20Dutch%20Grand%20Prix%20-%20Championship%20Points.pdf |url-status=live }}
The team introduced a range of new circuit-specific parts at the Italian Grand Prix, in an effort to avoid the issue encountered in Belgium caused by a lack of a low-drag aerodynamics kit.{{Cite web |last=Cleeren |first=Filip |date=1 September 2023 |title=McLaren unveils revamped Monza F1 wings to avoid Spa top speed woes |url=https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/mclaren-unveils-revamped-monza-f1-wings-to-avoid-spa-top-speed-woes/10514336/ |access-date=2 September 2023 |website=Autosport |publisher=Motorsport Network |language=en |archive-date=2 September 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230902060819/https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/mclaren-unveils-revamped-monza-f1-wings-to-avoid-spa-top-speed-woes/10514336/ |url-status=live }} These included new front and rear wings, front brake duct, and rear corner winglet assemblies. Piastri qualified seventh and Norris ninth.{{Cite web |last1=Butterworth |first1=Michael |last2=Deckers |first2=Aaron |date=3 September 2023 |title=Piastri dismisses Monza qualifying effort |url=https://racingnews365.com/piastri-dismisses-monza-qualifying-effort |access-date=6 September 2023 |website=RacingNews365 |language=en |archive-date=6 September 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230906063955/https://racingnews365.com/piastri-dismisses-monza-qualifying-effort |url-status=live }} During the race, Piastri was struck by Hamilton while in eighth place, for which Hamilton was given a five-second penalty.{{Cite web |date=3 September 2023 |title=Hamilton apologises to Piastri after Italian GP collision |url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.hamilton-apologises-to-piastri-as-both-drivers-give-their-verdict-on-italian.6UsFw1YOcjEskXcQ6Im6kJ.html |access-date=6 September 2023 |website=Formula1.com |language=en |archive-date=6 September 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230906063957/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.hamilton-apologises-to-piastri-as-both-drivers-give-their-verdict-on-italian.6UsFw1YOcjEskXcQ6Im6kJ.html |url-status=live }} Piastri was later given a five-second penalty of his own for a track limits violation, but it did not affect his final place.{{Cite web |last=Nichol |first=Jake |date=3 September 2023 |title=Piastri hit with penalty but not for Hamilton clash |url=https://racingnews365.com/piastri-hit-with-penalty-but-not-for-hamilton-clash |access-date=6 September 2023 |website=RacingNews365 |language=en |archive-date=6 September 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230906063957/https://racingnews365.com/piastri-hit-with-penalty-but-not-for-hamilton-clash |url-status=live }} Norris finished the race eighth,{{Cite web |last1=Mitchell |first1=Rory |last2=Deckers |first2=Aaron |date=4 September 2023 |title=Norris: McLaren in 'damage limitation' mode during Italian GP |url=https://racingnews365.com/norris-reveals-mclaren-feared-worse-outcome-to-italian-gp |access-date=6 September 2023 |website=RacingNews365 |language=en |archive-date=6 September 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230906063957/https://racingnews365.com/norris-reveals-mclaren-feared-worse-outcome-to-italian-gp |url-status=live }} and Piastri achieved the fastest lap of the race but finished twelfth.{{Cite news |last=Baldwin |first=Alan |date=4 September 2023 |title=Team by team analysis of the Italian Grand Prix |language=en |work=Reuters |publisher=Thomson Reuters Corporation |editor-last=Davis |editor-first=Toby |url=https://www.reuters.com/sports/motor-sports/team-by-team-analysis-italian-grand-prix-2023-09-03/ |access-date=6 September 2023 |archive-date=6 September 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230906063958/https://www.reuters.com/sports/motor-sports/team-by-team-analysis-italian-grand-prix-2023-09-03/ |url-status=live }}
= Singapore upgrades and closing rounds =
McLaren introduced an extensive upgrade package for the Singapore Grand Prix.{{Cite web |last=Noble |first=Jonathan |date=15 September 2023 |title=McLaren reveals bold sidepod solution as part of Singapore F1 upgrade |url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/mclaren-reveals-bold-sidepod-solution-as-part-of-singapore-f1-upgrade/10520431/ |access-date=15 September 2023 |website=Motorsport.com |publisher=Motorsport Network |language=en |archive-date=15 September 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230915130109/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/mclaren-reveals-bold-sidepod-solution-as-part-of-singapore-f1-upgrade/10520431/ |url-status=live }} The package included changes to sidepod design which introduced a deep channel in the bodywork as well as a new sidepod air inlet, and a new engine cover to better direct airflow to a redesigned floor.{{Cite web |last1=Noble |first1=Jonathan |last2=Somerfield |first2=Matt |date=20 September 2023 |title=McLaren not achieved even 50% of what it wants from MCL60 F1 car |url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/mclaren-not-achieved-even-50-of-what-it-wants-from-mcl60-f1-car/10522627/ |access-date=20 September 2023 |website=Motorsport.com |series=Motorsport Network |language=en |archive-date=20 September 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230920185424/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/mclaren-not-achieved-even-50-of-what-it-wants-from-mcl60-f1-car/10522627/ |url-status=live }} The floor featured new fence arrangements which was more inwardly angled, a new floor edge, and a new diffuser.{{Cite web |last=Coch |first=Mat |date=15 September 2023 |title=Big upgrades for McLaren, Scuderia AlphaTauri in Singapore |url=https://www.speedcafe.com/2023/09/15/big-upgrades-for-mclaren-scuderia-alphatauri-in-singapore/ |access-date=15 September 2023 |website=Speedcafe |language=en-US |archive-date=15 September 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230915130111/https://www.speedcafe.com/2023/09/15/big-upgrades-for-mclaren-scuderia-alphatauri-in-singapore/ |url-status=live }} Both the front and rear wing endplates were changed, the former to produce more outwash. The rear brake ducts and toelink fairing were also redesigned and a new halo design was introduced. Norris received the entire package, while Piastri received only part of it.{{Cite web |last=Noble |first=Jonathan |date=15 September 2023 |title=Norris gets "exciting" McLaren F1 car upgrade for Singapore GP |url=https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/norris-gets-exciting-mclaren-f1-upgrade-for-singapore-gp/10520161/ |access-date=15 September 2023 |website=Autosport |publisher=Motorsport Network |language=en |archive-date=14 September 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230914152627/https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/norris-gets-exciting-mclaren-f1-upgrade-for-singapore-gp/10520161/ |url-status=live }} Both cars featured a circuit-specific rear wing. The changes were intended to improve McLaren's performance in slow speed corners. The car also featured a special livery alongside the upgrades (see {{Section link|2=Liveries|nopage=y}}). Piastri's final Q1 run was interrupted by red flags after a serious crash by Lance Stroll, meaning he qualified seventeenth for the race.{{Cite web |last=Coch |first=Mat |date=16 September 2023 |title=Stroll crash cost Piastri in Singapore qualifying |url=https://www.speedcafe.com/2023/09/17/stroll-crash-cost-piastri-in-singapore-qualifying/ |access-date=17 September 2023 |website=Speedcafe |language=en-AU |archive-date=17 September 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230917071945/https://www.speedcafe.com/2023/09/17/stroll-crash-cost-piastri-in-singapore-qualifying/ |url-status=live }} Norris, however, qualified fourth.{{Cite web |last1=Walsh |first1=Fergal |last2=Deckers |first2=Aaron |date=16 September 2023 |title=Norris beams over McLaren's Singapore performance |url=https://racingnews365.com/norris-beams-over-mclarens-performance-against-singapore-rivals |access-date=17 September 2023 |website=RacingNews365 |language=en |archive-date=17 September 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230917071947/https://racingnews365.com/norris-beams-over-mclarens-performance-against-singapore-rivals |url-status=live }} In the race, Piastri recovered to finish seventh, while Norris improved to finish second.{{Cite web |date=2023-09-16 |title=2023 Singapore Grand Prix |url=https://www.mclaren.com/racing/formula-1/2023/singapore-grand-prix/2023-singapore-grand-prix/ |access-date=2024-08-06 |website=McLaren Racing |publisher=McLaren Racing Ltd. |language=en-GB |archive-date=6 August 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240806091343/https://www.mclaren.com/racing/formula-1/2023/singapore-grand-prix/2023-singapore-grand-prix/ |url-status=live }} Piastri moved back up to eleventh in the WDC.{{Cite web |last=Connelly |first=Garry |last2=Perini |first2=Matteo |last3=Liuzzi |first3=Vitantonio |author-link3=Vitantonio Liuzzi |last4=Ng |first4=Paul |date=2023-09-18 |title=2023 Singapore Grand Prix - Championship Points |url=https://www.fia.com/sites/default/files/decision-document/2023%20Singapore%20Grand%20Prix%20-%20Championship%20Points.pdf |access-date=2024-08-06 |website=FIA.com |publisher=Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile |page=2 |archive-date=6 August 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240806091343/https://www.fia.com/sites/default/files/decision-document/2023%20Singapore%20Grand%20Prix%20-%20Championship%20Points.pdf |url-status=live }}
Piastri received the remainder of the upgrade package fitted to Norris' car in Singapore at the Japanese Grand Prix, and the MCL60 again featured the special livery (see {{Section link|2=Liveries|nopage=y}}). McLaren also introduced a new sidepod inlet and a circuit-specific beam wing.{{Cite web |last=Coch |first=Mat |date=22 September 2023 |title=Teams bring fewer F1 upgrades to Japan |url=https://www.speedcafe.com/2023/09/22/teams-bring-fewer-f1-upgrades-to-japan/ |access-date=28 September 2023 |website=Speedcafe |language=en-AU |archive-date=26 September 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230926085309/https://www.speedcafe.com/2023/09/22/teams-bring-fewer-f1-upgrades-to-japan/ |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |last=Hughes |first=Mark |author-link=Mark Hughes (journalist) |date=22 September 2023 |title=Big Ferrari change headlines Suzuka F1 upgrades |url=https://www.the-race.com/formula-1/big-ferrari-change-headlines-suzuka-f1-upgrades/ |access-date=28 September 2023 |website=The Race |language=en |archive-date=28 September 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230928070626/https://www.the-race.com/formula-1/big-ferrari-change-headlines-suzuka-f1-upgrades/ |url-status=live }} Piastri qualified second and Norris qualified third, although they finished the opposite way around, marking Piastri's first podium in Formula One.{{Cite web |date=27 September 2023 |title=Oscar Piastri singles out areas for improvement after maiden F1 podium in Japan |url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.piastri-singles-out-areas-for-improvement-after-maiden-f1-podium-in-japan.2S5A86Kw5O835yUe5mMTtJ.html |access-date=28 September 2023 |website=Formula1.com |publisher=Formula One Administration |language=en |archive-date=28 September 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230928070628/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.piastri-singles-out-areas-for-improvement-after-maiden-f1-podium-in-japan.2S5A86Kw5O835yUe5mMTtJ.html |url-status=live }} Norris moved up to seventh in the WDC and Piastri improved to ninth.{{Cite web |last=Ennser |first=Gerd |last2=Perini |first2=Matteo |last3=Bernoldi |first3=Enrique |author-link3=Enrique Bernoldi |last4=Tsuge |first4=Kazuhiro |date=2023-09-24 |title=2023 Japanese Grand Prix - Championship Points |url=https://www.fia.com/sites/default/files/decision-document/2023%20Japanese%20Grand%20Prix%20-%20Championship%20Points.pdf |access-date=2024-08-06 |website=FIA.com |publisher=Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile |page=2 |archive-date=18 July 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240718114035/https://www.fia.com/sites/default/files/decision-document/2023%20Japanese%20Grand%20Prix%20-%20Championship%20Points.pdf |url-status=live }}
After both having lap times deleted in qualifying for the Qatar Grand Prix, Piastri qualified sixth and Norris tenth, with the latter not setting a valid lap time in Q3.{{Cite web |last=Cleeren |first=Filip |date=6 October 2023 |title=Norris: Making mistakes "all I did" in F1 Qatar GP qualifying |url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/norris-making-mistakes-all-i-did-in-f1-qatar-gp-qualifying/10529617/ |access-date=23 October 2023 |website=Motorsport.com |publisher=Motorsport Network |language=en |archive-date=17 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231017222925/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/norris-making-mistakes-all-i-did-in-f1-qatar-gp-qualifying/10529617/ |url-status=live }} In the sprint shootout, Piastri qualified on pole and Norris second.{{Cite web |last=Suttil |first=Josh |date=7 October 2023 |title=Piastri leads McLaren 1-2 in Qatar sprint qualifying |url=https://www.the-race.com/formula-1/piastri-leads-mclaren-1-2-in-qatar-sprint-qualifying/ |access-date=23 October 2023 |website=The Race |language=en |archive-date=8 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231008195516/https://www.the-race.com/formula-1/piastri-leads-mclaren-1-2-in-qatar-sprint-qualifying/ |url-status=live }} Piastri won the sprint and Norris finished third.{{Cite web |last=Beer |first=Matt |date=7 October 2023 |title=Piastri wins first F1 race in Qatar sprint while Verstappen takes title |url=https://www.the-race.com/formula-1/piastri-wins-first-f1-race-in-qatar-sprint-as-verstappen-takes-title/ |access-date=23 October 2023 |website=The Race |language=en |archive-date=11 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231011232546/https://www.the-race.com/formula-1/piastri-wins-first-f1-race-in-qatar-sprint-as-verstappen-takes-title/ |url-status=live }} In the Grand Prix, Piastri and Norris moved up to second and third respectively.{{Cite web |last=Kalinauckas |first=Alex |date=8 October 2023 |title=Verstappen takes 14th win of 2023; Mercedes drivers clash |url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/f1-qatar-gp-verstappen-takes-14th-win-of-2023-mercedes-drivers-clash/10530602/ |access-date=23 October 2023 |website=Motorsport.com |publisher=Motorsport Network |language=en |archive-date=13 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231013144034/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/f1-qatar-gp-verstappen-takes-14th-win-of-2023-mercedes-drivers-clash/10530602/ |url-status=live }}
At the United States Grand Prix, Norris qualified second and Piastri tenth for the race.{{Cite web |last=Bradley |first=Charles |date=22 October 2023 |title=US GP F1 qualifying results: Charles Leclerc starts on pole |url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/2023-us-gp-f1-qualifying-results-pole-leclerc/10535307/ |access-date=23 October 2023 |website=Motorsport.com |publisher=Motorsport Network |language=en |archive-date=21 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231021014306/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/2023-us-gp-f1-qualifying-results-pole-leclerc/10535307/ |url-status=live }} In the sprint shootout, Norris qualified and finished fourth,{{Cite web |date=22 October 2023 |title=Norris confident top three result was possible in Sprint |url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.norris-confident-top-three-result-was-possible-in-austin-sprint-with-one.6KC86Defj9iaIDraZn79Hi.html |access-date=23 October 2023 |website=Formula1.com |publisher=Formula One Administration |language=en |archive-date=22 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231022152450/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.norris-confident-top-three-result-was-possible-in-austin-sprint-with-one.6KC86Defj9iaIDraZn79Hi.html |url-status=live }} while Piastri qualified fifth but finished tenth after struggling with tyre degradation.{{Cite news |last=Doyle |first=Michael |date=22 October 2023 |title=Daniel Ricciardo and Oscar Piastri drop in US F1 sprint, Max Verstappen wins |language=en-AU |work=ABC News |publisher=Australian Broadcasting Corporation |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-10-22/oscar-piastri-daniel-ricciardo-sprint-race-f1-us-grand-prix/103004550 |access-date=23 October 2023 |archive-date=23 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231023030026/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-10-22/oscar-piastri-daniel-ricciardo-sprint-race-f1-us-grand-prix/103004550 |url-status=live }} Piastri was involved in a collision with Esteban Ocon, and retired from the race with a water leak and damage to his MCL60's radiator.{{Cite news |last=Doyle |first=Michael |date=22 October 2023 |title=Verstappen wins captivating US Grand Prix, Piastri retires early |language=en-AU |work=ABC News |publisher=Australian Broadcasting Corporation |agency=Associated Press |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-10-23/max-verstappen-wins-f1-us-grand-prix-oscar-piastri-retires/103004552 |access-date=23 October 2023 |archive-date=23 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231023115452/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-10-23/max-verstappen-wins-f1-us-grand-prix-oscar-piastri-retires/103004552 |url-status=live }} Norris, however, finished the race third, but was promoted to second after another driver was disqualified.{{Cite web |date=22 October 2023 |title=Norris hails McLaren progress after fourth straight podium but concedes they did not have 'enough' to win United States GP |url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.norris-hails-mclarens-progress-after-p3-finish-but-concedes-they-did-not.4sZd564NKQ5AVtuaSCEEt2.html |access-date=23 October 2023 |website=Formula1.com |publisher=Formula One Administration |language=en |archive-date=23 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231023055252/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.norris-hails-mclarens-progress-after-p3-finish-but-concedes-they-did-not.4sZd564NKQ5AVtuaSCEEt2.html |url-status=live }} The weekend's results moved McLaren ahead of Aston Martin for fourth place in the WCC.{{Cite web |date=23 October 2023 |title=F1 World Championship points after the 2023 United States Grand Prix |url=https://www.crash.net/f1/results/1038951/1/f1-world-championship-points-after-2023-united-states-grand-prix |access-date=23 October 2023 |website=Crash |language=en |archive-date=22 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231022225312/https://www.crash.net/f1/results/1038951/1/f1-world-championship-points-after-2023-united-states-grand-prix |url-status=live }} In the WDC, Norris moved up to sixth.{{Cite web |last=Holter |first=Felix |last2=Mallalieu |first2=Andrew |last3=Warwick |first3=Derek |author-link3=Derek Warwick |last4=Dean |first4=Dennis |date=2023-10-22 |title=2023 United States Grand Prix - Championship Points |url=https://www.fia.com/sites/default/files/decision-document/2023%20United%20States%20Grand%20Prix%20-%20Championship%20Points.pdf |access-date=2024-08-06 |website=FIA.com |publisher=Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile |page=2 |archive-date=18 July 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240718114012/https://www.fia.com/sites/default/files/decision-document/2023%20United%20States%20Grand%20Prix%20-%20Championship%20Points.pdf |url-status=live }}
The Mexico City Grand Prix's high elevation and thus thinner atmosphere led McLaren to fit a circuit-specific engine cover and larger front brake ducts to the MCL60 to maintain efficient cooling.{{Cite web |last=Straw |first=Edd |date=27 October 2023 |title=F1 teams' Mexico upgrade list dominated by cooling fixes |url=https://www.the-race.com/formula-1/f1-teams-mexico-upgrade-list-dominated-by-cooling-fixes/ |access-date=28 October 2023 |website=The Race |language=en |archive-date=28 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231028113502/https://www.the-race.com/formula-1/f1-teams-mexico-upgrade-list-dominated-by-cooling-fixes/ |url-status=live }} Piastri qualified seventh, but Norris failed to set a representative lap time in Q1 and qualified nineteenth,{{Cite web |last=Cleeren |first=Filip |date=31 October 2023 |title=The "jigsaw" McLaren is solving after shining on its weaker F1 circuits |url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/f1-mclaren-issue-weaker-circuits/10540755/ |access-date=7 November 2023 |website=Motorsport.com |publisher=Motorsport Network |language=en |archive-date=1 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231101061431/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/f1-mclaren-issue-weaker-circuits/10540755/ |url-status=live }} although he started seventeenth after grid penalties for other drivers.{{Cite web |last=Straw |first=Edd |date=31 October 2023 |title=A disappointing 'masterpiece' that channelled Alonso's iconic win |url=https://www.the-race.com/formula-1/norris-mexican-gp-masterpiece-alonso-prost/ |access-date=7 November 2023 |website=The Race |language=en |archive-date=7 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231107085034/https://www.the-race.com/formula-1/norris-mexican-gp-masterpiece-alonso-prost/ |url-status=live }} In the race, Norris improved to finish fifth, and Piastri finished eighth after picking up damage in a collision.{{Cite web |last=Cooper |first=Adam |date=31 October 2023 |title=Piastri's F1 Mexico GP compromised by damage from Tsunoda clash |url=https://au.motorsport.com/f1/news/piastri-f1-mexico-gp-damage-tsunoda-clash/10540719/ |access-date=7 November 2023 |website=Motorsport.com Australia |publisher=Motorsport Network |language=en |archive-date=7 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231107031423/https://au.motorsport.com/f1/news/piastri-f1-mexico-gp-damage-tsunoda-clash/10540719/ |url-status=live }}
Qualifying for the São Paulo Grand Prix was impacted by poor weather during Q3, leaving neither driver with a representative lap time.{{Cite web |last=Coch |first=Mat |date=5 November 2023 |title=McLaren explains costly qualifying delay |url=https://www.speedcafe.com/2023/11/05/mclaren-explains-costly-qualifying-delay/ |access-date=7 November 2023 |website=Speedcafe |language=en-US |archive-date=7 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231107085034/https://www.speedcafe.com/2023/11/05/mclaren-explains-costly-qualifying-delay/ |url-status=live }} Norris qualified seventh and Piastri tenth, although the former started the race sixth after a grid penalty for another driver.{{Cite web |date=5 November 2023 |title='Close to perfect weekend' for Norris as he grabs fifth podium in six races |url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.close-to-perfect-weekend-for-norris-as-he-grabs-fifth-podium-in-six-races.3xxxfBlQqqwFSUpQjLj8Cc.html |access-date=7 November 2023 |website=Formula1.com |publisher=Formula One Administration |language=en |archive-date=6 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231106220719/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.close-to-perfect-weekend-for-norris-as-he-grabs-fifth-podium-in-six-races.3xxxfBlQqqwFSUpQjLj8Cc.html |url-status=live }} In the sprint shootout, Norris qualified on pole and Piastri qualified tenth,{{Cite web |date=4 November 2023 |title='A nice surprise!' – Norris pleased with unexpected Sprint Shootout pole as he voices confidence for race |url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.a-nice-surprise-norris-pleased-with-unexpected-sprint-shootout-pole-as-he.36bmiAtINcyUbLpiabgJJZ.html |access-date=7 November 2023 |website=Formula1.com |publisher=Formula One Administration |language=en |archive-date=5 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231105041421/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.a-nice-surprise-norris-pleased-with-unexpected-sprint-shootout-pole-as-he.36bmiAtINcyUbLpiabgJJZ.html |url-status=live }} and they finished second and tenth respectively.{{Cite web |date=4 November 2023 |title=Lando Norris says 'many good surprises' in strong Sprint pace as he looks to make gains in Sao Paulo Grand Prix |url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.norris-says-many-good-surprises-in-strong-sprint-pace-as-he-looks-to-make.1VLDC8tPKZUoPAN8NXs5sF.html |access-date=7 November 2023 |website=Formula1.com |publisher=Formula One Administration |language=en |archive-date=5 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231105162510/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.norris-says-many-good-surprises-in-strong-sprint-pace-as-he-looks-to-make.1VLDC8tPKZUoPAN8NXs5sF.html |url-status=live }} During the race start, Norris moved up to second, which he maintained until the end of the race. However, an incident further down the led to Piastri being struck by another car, damaging his MCL60's floor, rear wing, and rear brake duct winglets.{{Cite web |last=Parkes |first=Ian |date=6 November 2023 |title=Piastri took advantage of 'rare opportunity' for São Paulo test run |url=https://www.speedcafe.com/2023/11/06/oscar-piastri-mclaren-sao-paulo-gp-test-session/ |access-date=7 November 2023 |website=Speedcafe |language=en-US |archive-date=7 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231107085034/https://www.speedcafe.com/2023/11/06/oscar-piastri-mclaren-sao-paulo-gp-test-session/ |url-status=live }} Although the floor and rear wing were repaired under the red flag, Piastri carried the winglet damage for the rest of the race, and he finished fourteenth. Norris moved up to fifth in the WDC.{{Cite web |last=Ennser |first=Gerd |last2=Bacquelaine |first2=Loïc |last3=Liuzzi |first3=Vitantonio |author-link3=Vitantonio Liuzzi |last4=Burti |first4=Luciano |author-link4=Luciano Burti |date=2023-11-05 |title=2023 São Paulo Grand Prix - Championship Points |url=https://www.fia.com/sites/default/files/decision-document/2023%20S%C3%A3o%20Paulo%20Grand%20Prix%20-%20Championship%20Points.pdf |access-date=2024-08-06 |website=FIA.com |publisher=Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile |page=2 |archive-date=9 February 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240209134302/https://www.fia.com/sites/default/files/decision-document/2023%20S%C3%A3o%20Paulo%20Grand%20Prix%20-%20Championship%20Points.pdf |url-status=live }}
McLaren fitted a circuit-specific beam wing and rear wing to the car for the inaugural Las Vegas Grand Prix.{{Cite web |last=Medland |first=Chris |date=17 November 2023 |title=Technical upgrades: 2023 Las Vegas Grand Prix |url=https://racer.com/2023/11/17/technical-upgrades-2023-las-vegas-grand-prix/ |access-date=18 November 2023 |website=RACER |place=Irvine |language=en-US |issn=1066-6060 |archive-date=18 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231118052045/https://racer.com/2023/11/17/technical-upgrades-2023-las-vegas-grand-prix/ |url-status=live }} This new beam wing was similar to the design used by Red Bull for their RB19, in that it featured a single beam wing instead of McLaren's previous design, which included two. The rear wing was modified to complement this change, with intention of improving aerodynamic efficiency and therefore top speed.{{Cite web |last=Noble |first=Jonathan |date=18 November 2023 |title=McLaren pursues concept behind Red Bull's F1 DRS supremacy |url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/mclaren-pursues-concept-behind-red-bulls-f1-drs-supremacy/10547430/ |access-date=19 November 2023 |website=Motorsport.com |publisher=Motorsport Network |language=en |archive-date=18 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231118174845/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/mclaren-pursues-concept-behind-red-bulls-f1-drs-supremacy/10547430/ |url-status=live }} Norris qualified sixteenth and Piastri nineteenth, which Stella said was due to poor tyre strategy rather than a lack of car performance.{{Cite web |last=Cleeren |first=Filip |date=18 November 2023 |title=McLaren: Tyre use, not car performance behind F1 Las Vegas Q1 exit |url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/mclaren-tyre-use-not-car-performance-behind-f1-las-vegas-q1-exit/10548470/ |access-date=19 November 2023 |website=Motorsport.com |publisher=Motorsport Network |language=en |archive-date=18 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231118162313/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/mclaren-tyre-use-not-car-performance-behind-f1-las-vegas-q1-exit/10548470/ |url-status=live }} Both drivers moved up a place on the starting grid due to a penalty for another driver.{{Cite news |last=Doyle |first=Michael |date=18 November 2023 |title=F1 Las Vegas Grand Prix qualifying produces mixed-up starting grid |language=en-AU |work=ABC News |publisher=Australian Broadcasting Corporation |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-11-18/f1-las-vegas-qualifying-produces-mixed-up-starting-grid/103104172 |access-date=19 November 2023 |archive-date=19 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231119013232/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-11-18/f1-las-vegas-qualifying-produces-mixed-up-starting-grid/103104172 |url-status=live }} Norris did not finish the race, having bottomed out on an uneven part of the track and collided heavily with a barrier.{{Cite web |last=Cleeren |first=Filip |date=19 November 2023 |title=McLaren: Bump that caused Norris' Las Vegas F1 crash should be taken out |url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/mclaren-bump-that-caused-norris-las-vegas-f1-crash-should-be-taken-out/10548939/ |access-date=19 November 2023 |website=Motorsport.com |publisher=Motorsport Network |language=en |archive-date=19 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231119131144/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/mclaren-bump-that-caused-norris-las-vegas-f1-crash-should-be-taken-out/10548939/ |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |last1=Beer |first1=Matt |last2=Mitchell-Malm |first2=Scott |date=19 November 2023 |title=What caused Vegas GP crash that sent Norris to hospital |url=https://www.the-race.com/formula-1/mclaren-norris-hospital-f1-las-vegas-gp-crash/ |access-date=19 November 2023 |website=The Race |language=en |archive-date=29 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231129080623/https://www.the-race.com/formula-1/mclaren-norris-hospital-f1-las-vegas-gp-crash/ |url-status=live }} Piastri was struck by Hamilton,{{Cite web |date=19 November 2023 |title=Hamilton laments timing of puncture that ruined Las Vegas GP |url=https://racingnews365.com/hamilton-laments-challenging-las-vegas-race |access-date=19 November 2023 |website=RacingNews365 |language=en |archive-date=29 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231129080621/https://racingnews365.com/hamilton-laments-challenging-las-vegas-race |url-status=live }} but finished tenth and set the fastest lap of the race and thus the lap record for the Las Vegas Strip Circuit{{Cite news |last=Dick |first=Callum |date=19 November 2023 |title=Max Verstappen wins Las Vegas Grand Prix as Oscar Piastri produces great drive |work=Herald Sun |publisher=News Corp Australia |agency=News Corp Australia Sports Newsroom |publication-place=Melbourne |url=https://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/motorsport/formula-one/formula-one-2023-live-updates-and-news-from-the-las-vegas-grand-prix/news-story/adde40a7f778e1ebbed1446d38237dd6|url-status=live |url-access=subscription |access-date=19 November 2023 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20231119101237/https://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/motorsport/formula-one/formula-one-2023-live-updates-and-news-from-the-las-vegas-grand-prix/news-story/adde40a7f778e1ebbed1446d38237dd6?amp&nk=ce033847d77ef9b221ad6b10619f2e4c-1700388767 |archive-date=19 November 2023}} – a record which only stood until Norris broke it the following year in the MCL38.
The MCL60 featured another special livery for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix (see {{Section link|2=Liveries|nopage=y}}). McLaren IndyCar driver Pato O'Ward participated in the first free practice session in place of Norris, fulfilling McLaren's obligation to run a rookie driver.{{Cite web |last=Noble |first=Jonathan |date=16 September 2023 |title=IndyCar's O'Ward to get Abu Dhabi F1 outings for McLaren |url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/indycars-oward-to-get-abu-dhabi-f1-outings-for-mclaren/10521286/ |access-date=17 September 2023 |website=Motorsport.com |publisher=Motorsport Network |language=en |archive-date=17 September 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230917071947/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/indycars-oward-to-get-abu-dhabi-f1-outings-for-mclaren/10521286/ |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |last=Anderson |first=Ben |date=24 November 2023 |title=Ferrari and Aston rookies star in Mercedes-topped Abu Dhabi FP1 |url=https://www.the-race.com/formula-1/rookies-star-in-abu-dhabi-2023-f1-first-practice/ |access-date=27 November 2023 |website=The Race |language=en |archive-date=29 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231129080557/https://www.the-race.com/formula-1/rookies-star-in-abu-dhabi-2023-f1-first-practice/ |url-status=live }}{{Efn|Every team is required to run a young driver (defined as a driver with no more than two race starts) twice during the season, once for each car. As Piastri had no race starts at the beginning of the season, his participation in the first free practice session at the Bahrain Grand Prix fulfilled one of these two mandatory sessions.{{Cite web |last=Medland |first=Chris |date=16 September 2023 |title=O'Ward confirmed for McLaren FP1 run in Abu Dhabi |url=https://racer.com/2023/09/16/oward-confirmed-for-mclaren-fp1-run-in-abu-dhabi/ |access-date=17 September 2023 |website=RACER |language=en-US |publication-place=Irvine |issn=1066-6060 |archive-date=17 September 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230917071946/https://racer.com/2023/09/16/oward-confirmed-for-mclaren-fp1-run-in-abu-dhabi/ |url-status=live }}}} Piastri qualified third and Norris fifth.{{Cite web |last1=Noble |first1=Jonathan |last2=Cleeren |first2=Filip |date=25 November 2023 |title=Norris rues "s*** job" he is doing in F1 qualifying after Abu Dhabi Q3 slide |url=https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/norris-rues-shit-job-he-is-doing-in-f1-qualifying-after-abu-dhabi-q3-slide/10551679/ |access-date=27 November 2023 |website=Autosport |publisher=Motorsport Network |language=en |issn=0269-946X |archive-date=25 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231125182257/https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/norris-rues-shit-job-he-is-doing-in-f1-qualifying-after-abu-dhabi-q3-slide/10551679/ |url-status=live }} Norris finished fifth in the race,{{Cite web |last=Kew |first=Matt |date=27 November 2023 |title=Norris: "Impressive" to crash with Perez after letting Red Bull pass deliberately |url=https://us.motorsport.com/f1/news/lando-norris-crash-perez-red-bull-past-deliberately/10552450/ |access-date=27 November 2023 |website=Motorsport.com USA |publisher=Motorsport Network |language=en |archive-date=29 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231129080626/https://us.motorsport.com/f1/news/lando-norris-crash-perez-red-bull-past-deliberately/10552450/ |url-status=live }} while Piastri finished sixth,{{Cite web |last=Parkes |first=Ian |date=26 November 2023 |title=Piastri ends F1 rookie season by avoiding 'something crazy' |url=https://www.speedcafe.com/2023/11/27/oscar-piastri-mclaren-abu-dhabi-gp-crazy/ |access-date=27 November 2023 |website=Speedcafe |language=en-US |archive-date=27 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231127001248/https://www.speedcafe.com/2023/11/27/oscar-piastri-mclaren-abu-dhabi-gp-crazy/ |url-status=live }} meaning they secured sixth and ninth in the WDC respectively. McLaren finished the season fourth in the WCC.{{Cite web |date=27 November 2023 |title=Norris hails 'exciting times ahead' for McLaren after team clinch P4 in constructors' in Abu Dhabi |url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.norris-hails-exciting-times-ahead-for-mclaren-after-team-clinch-p4-in.6jsFKg01VW2Y44aPPw2m8.html |access-date=27 November 2023 |website=Formula1.com |publisher=Formula One Administration |language=en |archive-date=29 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231129085945/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.norris-hails-exciting-times-ahead-for-mclaren-after-team-clinch-p4-in.6jsFKg01VW2Y44aPPw2m8.html |url-status=live }}
O'Ward also drove for the team in the Abu Dhabi post-season test.{{Cite web |last=Hardy |first=Ed |date=27 November 2023 |title=F1's Abu Dhabi post-season test: Who is driving and more |url=https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/f1s-abu-dhabi-post-season-test-who-is-driving-and-more/10552868/ |access-date=28 November 2023 |website=Autosport |publisher=Motorsport Network |language=en |issn=0269-946X |archive-date=27 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231127195115/https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/f1s-abu-dhabi-post-season-test-who-is-driving-and-more/10552868/ |url-status=live }} He was joined by Piastri, who tested Pirelli's {{F1|2024}} tyre compounds. Piastri's run plan focused mainly on longer stints and he completed 123 laps of Yas Marina Circuit, while O'Ward's included both long and performance runs, and he completed 103 laps.{{Cite web |date=28 November 2023 |title=Abu Dhabi post-season test |url=https://www.mclaren.com/racing/formula-1/2023/abu-dhabi-grand-prix/abu-dhabi-post-season-test/ |access-date=29 November 2023 |website=McLaren Racing |publisher=McLaren Racing Ltd. |place=Yas Marina Circuit |language=en-GB |publication-place=Woking |archive-date=29 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231129080643/https://www.mclaren.com/racing/formula-1/2023/abu-dhabi-grand-prix/abu-dhabi-post-season-test/ |url-status=live }}
Assessment and characteristics
= Original specification and early upgrades =
Scott Mitchell-Malm of The Race declared that the start of the 2023 season was "borderline disastrous" for the team.{{Cite web |last=Mitchell-Malm |first=Scott |date=22 July 2023 |title=F1's meandering wannabe giant has found its direction again |url=https://the-race.com/formula-1/f1s-meandering-wannabe-giant-has-found-its-direction-again/ |access-date=22 July 2023 |website=The Race |language=en-GB |archive-date=1 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230801134053/https://the-race.com/formula-1/f1s-meandering-wannabe-giant-has-found-its-direction-again/ |url-status=live }} McLaren believed itself to be more badly affected by 2023 regulation changes than other teams, specifically raising the rear floor edge and diffuser. The team had developed the profile of their Venturi tunnels around floor edge cut-outs and vortex generators further to the rear than most other teams, a design that lost much of its efficacy when the rear of the floor was raised.
Stella stated that the car lacked downforce but had an excess of drag, largely what the team expected from the compromised launch version.{{Cite web |last=Cooper |first=Adam |date=25 April 2023 |editor-last=Dunn |editor-first=Joe |title=F1's midfield locked in update race — the battle for a key couple of tenths |url=https://www.motorsportmagazine.com/articles/single-seaters/f1/f1s-midfield-locked-in-update-race-the-battle-for-a-key-couple-of-tenths/ |url-access=limited |access-date=21 May 2023 |website=Motor Sport |publisher=Motor Sport Magazine Limited |place=London |language=en-GB |issn=0027-2019 |archive-date=21 May 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230521104318/https://www.motorsportmagazine.com/articles/single-seaters/f1/f1s-midfield-locked-in-update-race-the-battle-for-a-key-couple-of-tenths/ |url-status=live }} He also identified that the MCL60 was particularly weak on low-grip surfaces when more time is spent off-throttle and off-brake.
Journalist Mark Hughes recognised that the MCL60 "generates heat in its front tyres very effectively, possibly better than any other car", which explained its very competitive performance in the wet closing stages of the Monaco Grand Prix and in the cool conditions in qualifying for the Spanish Grand Prix. Hughes also singled out the car's strength in high-speed corners. In a retrospective piece, Hughes said that it was "to McLaren's credit [...] it saw which way the technical winds were blowing before the season had even begun", unlike the team's immediate competitors Ferrari and Mercedes who quickly hit the limits of their car concepts, and Aston Martin who lost pace pursuing an uncompetitive concept.{{Cite web |last=Hughes |first=Mark |author-link=Mark Hughes (motorsport) |date=2023-12-27 |title=Inside McLaren's miracle leap - and what it means for 2024 |url=https://www.the-race.com/formula-1/inside-mclaren-miracle-leap-2024-implications/ |access-date=2024-03-26 |website=The Race |language=en |archive-date=26 March 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240326033925/https://www.the-race.com/formula-1/inside-mclaren-miracle-leap-2024-implications/ |url-status=live }}
Mat Coch of Speedcafe argued that the original specification MCL60 was "not fundamentally bad", but that it had "some unique idiosyncrasies that limit[ed] its performance". He also noted its quick tyre heating, suggesting that the MCL60's strong pace in cool conditions was due to its ability to maintain tyre temperature even as environmental temperatures dropped. Likewise, quick tyre heating leads to strong qualifying performances. However, Coch noted that this trait also meant the car produced excessive tyre degradation in typical race conditions. He acknowledged its stability on straights and in high-speed corners but noted that its poor off-throttle performance was due to excessive lateral roll.{{Cite web |last=Coch |first=Mat |date=10 June 2023 |title=ANALYSIS: McLaren MCL60 |url=https://www.speedcafe.com/2023/06/10/analysis-mclaren-mcl60-unique-idiosyncracies/ |access-date=30 June 2023 |website=Speedcafe |language=en-US |archive-date=28 June 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230628184714/https://www.speedcafe.com/2023/06/10/analysis-mclaren-mcl60-unique-idiosyncracies/ |url-status=live }}
= Mid-season Austrian–British upgrades =
File:FIA F1 Austria 2023 Nr. 4 (1).jpg paint, used to visualise and evaluate the aerodynamic performance of new parts.]]
Some commentators and outlets have referred to the post-British Grand Prix specification car as the MCL60B,{{Cite web |last=Mitchell-Malm |first=Scott |date=15 September 2023 |title=Extensive final McLaren F1 upgrade of 2023 revealed |url=https://www.the-race.com/formula-1/extensive-final-mclaren-f1-upgrade-of-2023-revealed/ |access-date=14 October 2023 |website=The Race |language=en |archive-date=24 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231024112555/https://www.the-race.com/formula-1/extensive-final-mclaren-f1-upgrade-of-2023-revealed/ |url-status=live }} and Stella likened the package to a B-specification.{{Cite web |last=Cleeren |first=Filip |date=30 March 2023 |title=McLaren planning "kind of B-spec" upgrade before F1 summer break |url=https://au.motorsport.com/f1/news/mclaren-planning-kind-of-b-spec-upgrade-before-f1-summer-break/10450074/ |access-date=14 October 2023 |website=Motorsport.com Australia |publisher=Motorsport Network |language=en |archive-date=6 April 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230406061808/https://au.motorsport.com/f1/news/mclaren-planning-kind-of-b-spec-upgrade-before-f1-summer-break/10450074/ |url-status=live }} However, the upgrades never modified the chassis of the car (as typically required for a B-specification), and no version of the MCL60 was ever officially named the MCL60B.
The team's mid-season upgrades were assessed as "one of the all-time great" turnarounds by Lawrence Barreto,{{Cite web |last=Barretto |first=Lawrence |date=8 August 2023 |title=McLaren's turnaround has been spectacular – but can they now push on to challenge Red Bull? |url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.barretto-mclarens-turnaround-has-been-spectacular-but-can-they-now-push-on.52OS9YFh9YREBtJivsRwa6.html |url-access=registration |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230807163415/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.barretto-mclarens-turnaround-has-been-spectacular-but-can-they-now-push-on.52OS9YFh9YREBtJivsRwa6.html |archive-date=7 August 2023 |access-date=7 August 2023 |website=Formula1.com |publisher=Formula One Administration |language=en}} "one of the most impressive in-season development steps ever seen in F1" by Andrew Benson,{{cite web |last=Benson |first=Andrew |date=19 February 2024 |title=F1 pre-season testing: Red Bull main focus as teams prepare for new season |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/68336129 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240220193119/https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/68336129 |archive-date=20 February 2024 |publisher=BBC Sport |language=en}} and a "miracle leap" by Hughes. Likewise, Hughes and technical analyst Giorgio Piola said it was clear the MCL60 was "the most improved car" over the first half of 2023 season, and called the package the "best upgrade" of the first half of the season.{{Cite web |last1=Hughes |first1=Mark |author-link=Mark Hughes (journalist) |last2=Piola |first2=Giorgio |author-link2=Giorgio Piola |date=22 August 2023 |title=The best car, best upgrade and biggest disappointment of 2023 so far |url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.tech-tuesday-the-best-car-best-upgrade-and-biggest-disappointment-of-2023-so.1Xteai3Fjoj1laowrfmUKv.html |access-date=23 August 2023 |website=Formula1.com |publisher=Formula One Administration |language=en |archive-date=23 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230823030903/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.tech-tuesday-the-best-car-best-upgrade-and-biggest-disappointment-of-2023-so.1Xteai3Fjoj1laowrfmUKv.html |url-status=live }} They later observed that the upgrades introduced in the Azerbaijani race were a change in design philosophy, and the upgrades introduced in Austria and Britain were a based on that shift. The essential feature of this shift was the emphasis on creating more airflow in the forward area of the underfloor, which in turn improves the quality of the airflow into the diffuser. Barretto suggested that beyond the improvement in performance, the upgrades had opened up ample development paths for McLaren to pursue further performance gains, either on the MCL60 or its eventual successor. Tony Dodgins of Motor Sport called the upgrade a "quantum leap", and said that the prospect of McLaren being the second fastest team on merit "could not have been entertained" at the first race in Bahrain.{{Cite web |last=Dodgins |first=Tony |date=11 July 2023 |editor-last=Dunn |editor-first=Joe |title=In F1 battle to beat Red Bull, even Mercedes is cheering McLaren's quantum leap |url=https://www.motorsportmagazine.com/articles/single-seaters/f1/in-f1-battle-to-beat-red-bull-even-mercedes-is-cheering-mclarens-quantum-leap/ |url-access=limited |access-date=14 October 2023 |website=Motor Sport |language=en-GB |issn=0027-2019 |archive-date=12 July 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230712105328/https://www.motorsportmagazine.com/articles/single-seaters/f1/in-f1-battle-to-beat-red-bull-even-mercedes-is-cheering-mclarens-quantum-leap/ |url-status=live }}
Despite the changes and improvement in performance, Norris did not believe the car was fundamentally easier to drive.{{Cite web |date=9 August 2023 |title=Norris has 'more hope than last few years' that McLaren can sort chief limitation that makes car 'difficult to drive' |url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.norris-has-more-hope-than-last-few-years-that-mclaren-can-sort-chief.7AEUH2VCurrz1nI9coZyBJ.html |access-date=9 August 2023 |website=Formula1.com |publisher=Formula One Administration |language=en |archive-date=11 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230811055822/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.norris-has-more-hope-than-last-few-years-that-mclaren-can-sort-chief.7AEUH2VCurrz1nI9coZyBJ.html |url-status=live }} Although the package presented a substantial increase in the car's peak downforce, it continued to lack off-throttle performance through the mid-corner. Compared to the WDC- and WCC-winning Red Bull Racing RB19, the MCL60 had a significant straight-line speed deficit and continued to lack performance in long corners.{{Cite web |last=Kew |first=Matt |date=27 August 2023 |title=How close was Norris to Dutch F1 pole without 'worst' end to lap? |url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/gps-analysis-norris-dutch-f1-pole/10512161/ |access-date=27 August 2023 |website=Motorsport.com |publisher=Motorsport Network |language=en |archive-date=27 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230827111428/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/gps-analysis-norris-dutch-f1-pole/10512161/ |url-status=live }}
After the Singapore Grand Prix, Hughes and Piola noted that McLaren's Austrian–British upgrades appeared to have inspired similar changes by Alfa Romeo to their C43, Alpine to their A523, and AlphaTauri to their AT04.{{Cite web |last1=Hughes |first1=Mark |author-link=Mark Hughes (journalist) |last2=Piola |first2=Giorgio |author-link2=Giorgio Piola |date=19 September 2023 |title=Have McLaren and other teams homed in on Red Bull's secret ingredient? |url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.tech-tuesday-have-mclaren-and-other-teams-homed-in-on-red-bulls-secret.3yNLVYjAuFUzpBLHXZIoCK.html |url-access=registration |access-date=20 September 2023 |website=Formula1.com |publisher=Formula One Administration |language=en |archive-date=20 September 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230920131807/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.tech-tuesday-have-mclaren-and-other-teams-homed-in-on-red-bulls-secret.3yNLVYjAuFUzpBLHXZIoCK.html |url-status=live }}
= Singaporean upgrades =
Stella stated that despite the team's improvement in results, the team had not achieved even half of its aerodynamic goals, and the work would have to be continued on the MCL60's successor, the MCL38. Norris said that the upgrades had worked as expected and produced a quicker car, but noted that at its limits the MCL60 still experienced the same core weaknesses as its predecessors.{{Cite web |last=Cooper |first=Adam |date=19 September 2023 |title=Norris: Revised McLaren F1 car quicker but has same issues |url=https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/norris-revised-mclaren-f1-car-quicker-but-has-same-issues/10521451/ |access-date=20 September 2023 |website=Autosport |publisher=Motorsport Network |language=en |archive-date=18 September 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230918184720/https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/norris-revised-mclaren-f1-car-quicker-but-has-same-issues/10521451/ |url-status=live }} Piastri said that the upgrades had been "able to deliver everything we hoped, in some cases more than we expected".{{Cite web |last=Kew |first=Matt |date=2024-01-26 |title=Piastri: Momentum key after McLaren exceeded all F1 expectations in 2023 |url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/piastri-momentum-key-after-mclaren-exceeded-all-f1-expectations-in-2023/10569041/ |access-date=2024-03-26 |website=Motorsport.com |publisher=Motorsport Network |language=en |archive-date=6 August 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240806084323/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/piastri-momentum-key-after-mclaren-exceeded-all-f1-expectations-in-2023/10569041/ |url-status=live }} Auto Motor und Sport
Following the São Paulo Grand Prix at which Norris was a serious threat to Verstappen throughout the weekend, it appeared that the biggest difference in performance between the MCL60 and the RB19 was the Red Bulls' superior tyre preservation: although the MCL60 could match and even outperform the RB19 over a single qualifying lap or early in a stint on new tyres, it could not preserve its tyres for as long as the Red Bull, and lost time later in each stint.{{Cite web |last=Hughes |first=Mark |author-link=Mark Hughes (journalist) |date=6 November 2023 |editor-last=Dunn |editor-first=Joe |title=Why McLaren couldn't take its genuine chance of Sao Paulo GP win |url=https://www.motorsportmagazine.com/articles/single-seaters/f1/why-mclaren-couldnt-take-its-genuine-chance-of-sao-paulo-gp-win/ |url-access=limited |access-date=10 November 2023 |website=Motor Sport |language=en-GB |issn=0027-2019 |archive-date=6 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231106221001/https://www.motorsportmagazine.com/articles/single-seaters/f1/why-mclaren-couldnt-take-its-genuine-chance-of-sao-paulo-gp-win/ |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |last=Cleeren |first=Filip |date=8 November 2023 |title=McLaren: F1 tyre wear is where Red Bull makes the difference |url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/mclaren-tyre-wear-is-where-red-bull-f1-makes-the-difference/10544137/ |access-date=10 November 2023 |website=Motorsport.com |publisher=Motorsport Network |language=en |archive-date=8 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231108212355/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/mclaren-tyre-wear-is-where-red-bull-f1-makes-the-difference/10544137/ |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |last=Anderson |first=Ben |date=8 November 2023 |title=Where McLaren will find what it's still missing to Red Bull |url=https://www.the-race.com/formula-1/where-mclaren-will-find-what-its-still-missing-to-red-bull/ |access-date=18 November 2023 |website=The Race |language=en |archive-date=14 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231114061316/https://www.the-race.com/formula-1/where-mclaren-will-find-what-its-still-missing-to-red-bull/ |url-status=live }} Andreas Haupt of Auto Motor und Sport said that the car had developed "all-rounder qualities" and no longer substantially varied in performance across different circuits.{{Cite web |last=Haupt |first=Andreas |date=8 November 2023 |title=McLarens beste Saisonleistung: Der große Red-Bull-Rivale 2024? |url=https://www.auto-motor-und-sport.de/formel-1/mclaren-wende-wm-kampf-2024/ |access-date=10 November 2023 |website=Auto Motor und Sport |language=de |issn=0005-0806 |archive-date=29 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231129080635/https://www.auto-motor-und-sport.de/formel-1/mclaren-wende-wm-kampf-2024/ |url-status=live }} Haupt acknowledged that the MCL60 still did not excel in slow-speed corners, but had improved significantly. After the season finale at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Stella speculated that while the upgrades had improved pace, they may have worsened the car's handling, and said McLaren would investigate the possible consequences for the MCL38.{{Cite web |last=Kew |first=Matt |date=26 November 2023 |title=McLaren must investigate whether F1 upgrades have introduced bad handling traits |url=https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/mclaren-must-investigate-whether-f1-upgrades-have-introduced-bad-handling-traits/10551917/ |access-date=27 November 2023 |website=Autosport |publisher=Motorsport Network |language=en |archive-date=26 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231126135550/https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/mclaren-must-investigate-whether-f1-upgrades-have-introduced-bad-handling-traits/10551917/ |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |last=Mitchell-Malm |first=Scott |date=26 November 2023 |title=McLaren's hypothesis for Norris's rate of 'stupid mistakes' |url=https://www.the-race.com/formula-1/lando-norris-stupid-mistakes-mclaren-hypothesis/ |access-date=27 November 2023 |website=The Race |language=en |archive-date=27 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231127071613/https://www.the-race.com/formula-1/lando-norris-stupid-mistakes-mclaren-hypothesis/ |url-status=live }}
Later use
The MCL60 was used for a testing session for sole Formula One tyre supplier Pirelli in January 2025 on the 2A format of Circuit Paul Ricard. Piastri completed 120 laps and Norris 123, testing prototype intermediate and wet tyres for use in the {{F1|2026}} season.{{Cite web |date=2025-01-29 |title=First test of 2025 for the next generation of wet weather tyres |url=https://press.pirelli.com/first-test-of-2025-for-the-next-generation-of-wet-weather-tyres/ |access-date=2025-01-31 |website=Pirelli |language=en}}{{Cite web |date=2025-01-30 |title=The first test of the season for the 2026 rain tyres ends at Paul Ricard |url=https://press.pirelli.com/the-first-test-of-the-season-for-the-2026-rain-tyres-ends-at-paul-ricard/ |access-date=2025-01-31 |website=Pirelli |language=en}} The car – a "mule" modified to simulate a 2026 car – was used again in February for a two-day test at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya to test prototype slick tyres for 2026.{{Cite web |last=Coch |first=Mat |date=2025-02-05 |title=McLaren and Ferrari complete crucial F1 2026 track testing |url=https://speedcafe.com/f1-news-2025-mclaren-ferrari-test-pirelli-development-tyre-2026-details-times/ |access-date=2025-02-10 |website=Speedcafe |language=en-AU}}{{Cite web |last=Jackson |first=Kieran |date=2025-02-06 |title=Hamilton trails Leclerc on final day of F1 test as Ferrari times vs McLaren revealed |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/f1/lewis-hamilton-ferrari-f1-test-charles-leclerc-mclaren-norris-b2693245.html |access-date=2025-02-10 |website=The Independent |language=en |publication-place=London}} Norris completed 139 laps and Piastri 152.{{Cite web |date=2025-02-05 |title=Slick tyre testing ends in Barcelona |url=https://press.pirelli.com/slick-tyre-testing-ends-in-barcelona-0/ |access-date=2025-02-10 |website=Pirelli |language=en}} Later the same month, O'Ward drove the mule car at Circuito de Jerez for another Pirelli test, completing 153 laps.{{Cite web |date=2025-02-12 |title=On track at Jerez with Alpine and McLaren |url=https://press.pirelli.com/on-track-at-jerez-with-alpine-and-mclaren/ |access-date=2025-02-15 |website=Pirelli |language=en}} Valtteri Bottas tested the car at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya in March.{{Cite web |last=Cozens |first=Jack |date=2025-03-28 |title=Why Bottas has been driving for McLaren |url=https://www.the-race.com/formula-1/why-bottas-has-been-driving-for-mclaren/ |access-date=2025-03-29 |website=The Race |language=en}} Bottas, a Mercedes reserve driver, doubled as McLaren's reserve for 2025 due to O'Ward's commitments in IndyCar.
Complete Formula One results
{{hidden
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| content = {{F1 driver results legend 8}}
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| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center; font-size:90%"
! rowspan="2" |Year ! rowspan="2" |Entrant ! rowspan="2" |Power unit ! rowspan="2" |Tyres ! rowspan="2" |Drivers ! colspan="22" |Grands Prix ! rowspan="2" |Points ! rowspan="2" |WCC |
| BHR
!SAU !AUS !AZE !MIA !MON !ESP !CAN !AUT !GBR !HUN !BEL !NED !ITA !SIN !JPN !QAT !USA !MXC !SAP !LVG !ABU |
|---|
| rowspan="2" |{{F1|2023}}
| rowspan="2" |McLaren F1 Team | rowspan="2" |{{nowrap|Mercedes-AMG}} | rowspan="2" |{{Pirelli}} | align="left" |{{nowrap|{{Flagicon|GBR}} Lando Norris}} |{{F1R2023|NOR|BHR}} |{{F1R2023|NOR|SAU}} |{{F1R2023|NOR|AUS}} |{{F1R2023|NOR|AZE}} |{{F1R2023|NOR|MIA}} |{{F1R2023|NOR|MON}} |{{F1R2023|NOR|ESP}} |{{F1R2023|NOR|CAN}} |{{F1R2023|NOR|AUT}} |{{F1R2023|NOR|GBR}} |{{F1R2023|NOR|HUN}} |{{F1R2023|NOR|BEL}} |{{F1R2023|NOR|NED}} |{{F1R2023|NOR|ITA}} |{{F1R2023|NOR|SIN}} |{{F1R2023|NOR|JPN}} |{{F1R2023|NOR|QAT}} |{{F1R2023|NOR|USA}} |{{F1R2023|NOR|MXC}} |{{F1R2023|NOR|SAP}} |{{F1R2023|NOR|LVG}} |{{F1R2023|NOR|ABU}} ! rowspan="2" | 302 ! rowspan="2" | 4th |
| align=left|{{nowrap|{{Flagicon|AUS}} Oscar Piastri}}
|{{F1R2023|PIA|BHR}} |{{F1R2023|PIA|SAU}} |{{F1R2023|PIA|AUS}} |{{F1R2023|PIA|AZE}} |{{F1R2023|PIA|MIA}} |{{F1R2023|PIA|MON}} |{{F1R2023|PIA|ESP}} |{{F1R2023|PIA|CAN}} |{{F1R2023|PIA|AUT}} |{{F1R2023|PIA|GBR}} |{{F1R2023|PIA|HUN}} |{{F1R2023|PIA|BEL}} |{{F1R2023|PIA|NED}} |{{F1R2023|PIA|ITA}} |{{F1R2023|PIA|SIN}} |{{F1R2023|PIA|JPN}} |{{F1R2023|PIA|QAT}} |{{F1R2023|PIA|USA}} |{{F1R2023|PIA|MXC}} |{{F1R2023|PIA|SAP}} |{{F1R2023|PIA|LVG}} |{{F1R2023|PIA|ABU}} |
| colspan="29" |Sources:{{Cite web |date=2023 |title=McLaren MCL60 |url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/mclaren-mcl60.aspx |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230906064338/https://www.statsf1.com/en/mclaren-mcl60.aspx |archive-date=6 September 2023 |access-date=27 November 2023 |website=Stats F1 }}{{Cite web |last1=Connelly |first1=Gary |last2=Remmerie |first2=Mathieu |last3=Liuzzi |first3=Vitantonio |author-link3=Vitantonio Liuzzi |last4=Al Hashmi |first4=Mohamed |date=26 November 2023 |title=2023 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix - Championship Points |url=https://www.fia.com/sites/default/files/decision-document/2023%20Abu%20Dhabi%20Grand%20Prix%20-%20Championship%20Points.pdf |access-date=29 November 2023 |website=FIA.com |publisher=Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile |pages=4 |archive-date=29 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231129080559/https://www.fia.com/sites/default/files/decision-document/2023%20Abu%20Dhabi%20Grand%20Prix%20-%20Championship%20Points.pdf |url-status=live }} |
Notes
{{Notelist}}
References
{{Reflist}}
External links
{{Portal|Formula One}}
- {{Commons-inline|links=the McLaren MCL60}}
- [https://www.mclaren.com/racing/ McLaren official website]
{{F1 cars 2023}}
{{McLaren}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:McLaren MCL60}}