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McLaren clinches the 2024 F1 Constructors’ Championship after a 26-year drought, marking a historic return to the top.
New Delhi: McLaren has made history by claiming the 2024 Formula 1 Constructors’ Championship, their first title in 26 years. The team’s success reflects their resilience and determination to overcome years of challenges and setbacks. Founded in 1963 by Bruce McLaren, the team has been a dominant force in motorsport, but this latest achievement signals a triumphant return to the top of Formula 1.
The season was a story of consistency and excellence, with Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri playing pivotal roles in McLaren’s success. Norris capped the season with a stellar performance at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, starting from pole position and maintaining his lead to secure a crucial victory. His consistent performance throughout the year was instrumental in McLaren’s championship run. The team amassed an impressive record, finishing with six wins and 16 podium finishes, demonstrating their ability to compete at the highest level.
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Piastri, too, contributed significantly to the team’s points tally. In the final race, despite an early collision with Max Verstappen, Piastri fought hard to finish 10th, adding vital points that ultimately secured McLaren’s position at the top. His determination and skill under pressure underscored McLaren’s depth as a team and their ability to deliver results even in challenging circumstances.
The season wasn’t without competition. Ferrari, led by Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc, mounted a strong challenge throughout the year. Their consistent podium finishes kept the title race alive until the very end. However, McLaren’s unwavering focus and ability to perform under pressure proved decisive, with the team edging Ferrari by just 14 points to claim the championship.
This achievement marks McLaren’s ninth Constructors’ Championship title and ends a drought that had lasted since their last triumph in 1998. The victory also highlights McLaren’s ability to bounce back from a difficult period in their history. The struggles of the McLaren-Honda partnership from 2015 to 2017 were a low point for the team, with poor performance and management challenges threatening to derail their legacy. However, the 2024 season has shown the team’s capacity to adapt and rebuild.
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The victory was celebrated by the team’s leaders and drivers, who reflected on the journey to this historic moment. Lando Norris expressed pride in the collective effort, stating, “It feels incredible, not just for me but for the whole team. We’ve worked so hard to get here, and ending the season like this is perfect.” McLaren CEO Zak Brown echoed this sentiment, calling the championship a testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone involved. Team Principal Andrea Stella highlighted the significance of the moment, saying, “Winning after 26 years is truly special. Our efforts have paid off, and this evening is a celebration of everyone’s contribution.”
McLaren’s resurgence in 2024 not only adds another chapter to their storied history but also sets the stage for a promising future. With a strong driver lineup and a committed team, they have reaffirmed their position as one of Formula 1’s most iconic and competitive teams.
