F1 news: McLaren hit 'key milestone' as Zak Brown gives positive sign

mclaren and lando norris — Photo: © LAT Images

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McLaren hit 'key milestone' as team boss gives positive sign

Many teams are now putting the final touches on their new cars ahead of launch week

Dan Ripley Global Editor

Professional F1 journalist and analyst

Wednesday 31 January 2024 13:57 Updated: 17:09

The 2024 Formula 1 campaign is edging closer and McLaren will be glad a major hurdle has been cleared as we enter a crucial part of pre-season.

McLaren were quick out of the blocks to unveil their livery for the upcoming year, but while we know the colour scheme the team will adopt, how their actual car will look remains unknown.

However what we do know is that the latest McLaren appears to have passed a major and important hurdle when it comes to pre-season testing for any team.

Article continues under video

In a post from the team's social media account, team members all gathered round to ensure that the new car could at the very least splutter into life for the first time.

While for many normal folk on a cold January morning this is not usually a guarantee, everything appeared to go as planned at the Woking outfit's garage in the video posted to X.

The McLaren team have been working hard on their new car for the 2024 F1 season

After a successful 2023 campaign, McLaren will now hope they can give Red Bull a stronger challenge

McLaren up and firing for 2024

The post was captioned: "Roaring into life... We've fired-up for the first time in 2024! A key milestone in the car build process."

As the car, with only a close up of the rear seen, was powered up its revs were tested in front of key staff members with little signs of any problem.

After the car cuts out on what looks like a successful completion of the test, the video then cuts towards CEO Zak Brown who appeared pleased with what he had seen after giving an approving nod.

It's another big boost for McLaren who earlier in January confirmed a new long term contract for Lando Norris.

The British star's commitment is another sign of the team heading in the right direction as they look towards the 2024 season as one where they can hopefully increase their challenge to defending champions Red Bull.

Roaring into life... 😍

We've fired-up for the first time in 2024! A key milestone in the car build process. 🧡#WhateverItTakes pic.twitter.com/VP6zXES2qj
— McLaren (@McLarenF1) January 30, 2024