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F1: McLaren unveil 2021 MCL35M and Daniel Ricciardo
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By Short Shift News
McLaren has launched their 2021 MCL35M today as Lando Norris and new recruit Daniel Ricciardo officially opened their 2021 season.
In the first virtual launch for the F1 season, McLaren pulled the covers off their relatively unchanged car (in terms of visuals) – however, if you look a little deeper, the McLaren car has undergone several changes ahead of the upcoming season.
Firstly, the addition of the famous number three, sported by the ever-smiling Australian, Daniel Ricciardo. The 31-year-old joins McLaren after two seasons with Renault and believes McLaren is his best shot at the title.
McLaren also welcomes the return of Mercedes Power Units. The Woking-based team last ran Mercedes in 2014 and have re-established their partnership for 2021 and beyond.
Of course, the F1 rule changes means teams have been forced to use modified versions of their 2020 chassis this year, ahead of the introduction of all-new cars in 2022.
Ricciardo joined Norris, who begins his third season with the team, at the McLaren Technology Centre in Woking to uncover the new car.
Daniel Ricciardo – McLaren
“It’s great to have finally joined the team after what feels like an age since we confirmed it last May.
“I’m thrilled to be a McLaren driver and super-keen to get started. McLaren has been on an awesome journey over the last few years, and I’m looking forward to helping the team maintain this positive momentum.
“Going into this new season in Formula 1, I’m feeling excited and motivated to give it my absolute all. I think my determination to perform has only grown as I’ve gained more experience and I’m looking forward to getting this next chapter in my career started.”
Team-mate Norris looks to improve on his 2020 form, which saw him claim his maiden F1 podium and finish ninth in the overall standings.
Lando Norris – McLaren
“I’m really excited to be back working with the team ahead of my third season in Formula 1.
“Every time I get into the car I feel like I’m growing in confidence and experience, which helps me build my performance year-on-year. I’ve been working hard personally throughout the off-season to be as sharp as I can when we get to pre-season testing, and I can’t wait to get back in the car soon.
“2021 is going to be another challenging year on-track with close competition, but I’m just focused on getting back to racing and giving it my all.”
The 2021 Formula One season gets underway on March 12, with a three-day test in Bahrain ahead of the season opener on March 28.
See below some shots of the MCL35M (Image Credit: F1/McLaren)
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