McLaren’s ‘Perfect’ Conclusion After Being ‘On The Brink’

McLaren concluded the 2023 constructors’ championship in fourth place, trailing winners Red Bull by 538 points. Over his six-year tenure at McLaren, navigating the sport’s various triumphs and setbacks, Lando Norris consistently expressed his belief that the team would eventually reclaim its top position. This conviction was validated on Sunday when Norris secured his fourth Formula 1 victory of his standout year at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, thereby clinching the team’s first constructors’ championship in 26 years. Norris commented on the achievement, stating, “It’s been a lovely journey. To end the season like this is perfect.” He added, “It feels wrong to say that McLaren have not won a championship in 26 years. Delivering that for the team has put the biggest smile possible on everyone’s face. This is the biggest reward you can give back to everyone who designs the car, builds the car, gets the partners.” He concluded by emphasizing collective effort, “Everyone has played such a big part, so just proud. Proud is my biggest thing.” McLaren holds the distinction of being Formula 1’s second longest-running team and the second most successful in terms of race wins, trailing only Ferrari in both categories. This year, McLaren surpassed Ferrari by 14 points. The term “wrong” aptly describes the 25-year period since McLaren last claimed the title of F1