McLaren triumphed in the constructors’ championship at the grand finale of the season in Abu Dhabi, marking a significant achievement for the team as it is their first title since Lewis Hamilton claimed the drivers’ championship in 2008. This victory brings an end to a 26-year wait for the constructors’ title, with their last win dating back to 1998 when Mika Hakkinen and David Coulthard were behind the wheel.
The championship was clinched in dramatic fashion, featuring Lando Norris securing a win, surpassing Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc to stand atop the podium. Although Oscar Piastri faced challenges during the race, including a collision with Max Verstappen that led to both drivers receiving penalties, Norris’s strong performance ensured McLaren’s title victory by a solid 14 points.
With this win, McLaren has achieved their ninth constructors’ title in the history of Formula 1, tying them with Williams for second place historically, trailing only behind Ferrari’s impressive 16 titles. The team’s resurgence began at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix in mid-September when they took the lead, ending Red Bull’s enduring dominance that lasted 55 consecutive races.
As the season progressed, McLaren’s competition mainly came from Ferrari, while Red Bull’s performance dipped in the final seven races. The turning point for McLaren this year can be traced back to significant upgrades introduced during the Miami Grand Prix, which allowed Norris and Piastri to contend for victory effectively.
In addition, Norris, who emerged as Verstappen’s closest rival for the drivers’ title, demonstrated his prowess on the track even though he was eliminated from the drivers’ championship contention two races prior to Abu Dhabi.
This victory not only underscores the talent within McLaren but also symbolizes a promising resurgence for the storied team in Formula 1.
The successful season serves as a hopeful indication of future competitiveness, reinforcing a vibrant narrative of growth and determination in the sport.