The 2025 Formula 1 car launch season is officially underway, with McLaren taking the initiative by revealing their latest challenger, the MCL39, at Silverstone. This unexpected unveiling provides a first glimpse into how teams are navigating the transition year before the major regulation changes set for 2026.
McLaren MCL39: Breaking Down the Key Upgrades
McLaren’s latest machine showcases a series of significant technical enhancements, indicating the team’s determination to build on last season’s strong performance. The MCL39 retains certain elements from its predecessor, such as the front wing introduced at the 2024 United States Grand Prix, while incorporating notable aerodynamic and mechanical refinements.
One of the most striking revisions involves the front suspension layout. While the pull-rod configuration remains, the upper wishbone has been further inclined, positioning the rear leg lower on the chassis. This adjustment enhances anti-dive properties while optimizing airflow, striking a balance between mechanical stability and aerodynamic efficiency.
Additionally, minor modifications have been made to the front brake duct inlet, suggesting potential internal upgrades to the brake cooling system. Whether these involve restructured airflow channels or entirely new brake components remains to be seen during pre-season testing.
Enhanced Cooling and Aerodynamic Refinements
A key area of focus for McLaren has been cooling optimization. The airbox has been reshaped into a more oval configuration surrounding the rollover hoop, while the adjacent side ducts have been enlarged. The sidepod inlets have also been redesigned, now featuring the widely adopted P-shaped profile, minimizing aerodynamic losses along the chassis. This design evolution, initially pioneered by Ferrari in 2023, has since been refined across the grid.
Further improvements include a newly integrated outlet behind the downwashing sidepod bodywork, positioned just ahead of the coke bottle region. This feature could indicate McLaren’s adaptation of a bypass duct concept seen on the Red Bull RB20, although it may also contribute to a more efficient cooling strategy.
Sleeker Bodywork and Structural Adjustments
Modifications to the MCL39’s engine cover highlight McLaren’s continuous pursuit of aerodynamic efficiency. The refined airbox shape has allowed for a more tapered bodywork design, shortening the shark fin structure and reshaping the car’s shoulder section. This mirrors a cooling solution previously employed by Ferrari on the SF-24.
McLaren has also retained the overbite panel on the sidepod inlets while introducing an enlarged outboard mirror mounting to streamline airflow. The inboard mirror attachment has been restructured into a T-shaped array to provide additional aerodynamic stability. Furthermore, a dual-element vertical winglet has been added, aligning with concepts previously tested by Ferrari and Aston Martin.
Rear Wing and Floor: Expect More Developments
For its initial shakedown, McLaren retained the rear wing specification introduced at the 2024 Brazilian Grand Prix. Similarly, no radical floor design changes were visible, though further updates are likely to emerge closer to pre-season testing. Given the competitive nature of Formula 1, teams often hold back their most advanced aerodynamic innovations until the final moments before the season opener.
What’s Next for the MCL39?
With McLaren setting the pace in early car reveals, all eyes will be on their upcoming performance in pre-season testing at the Bahrain International Circuit. As rival teams analyze these initial developments, expect further refinements before the first race of the season. McLaren’s proactive approach suggests they are aiming to maintain momentum and challenge for top positions in 2025.
