McLaren marks Qatar sprint a powerful response after Las Vegas blunder
Andrea Stella has praised McLaren’s performance in the Qatar Grand Prix Sprint, describing it as a powerful response to the team’s disqualification in Las Vegas.
“It was a strong reaction in terms of the result on track.”- Andrea Stella
Speaking to Sky Sports after the 19-lap Sprint shootout, the McLaren team principal expressed his delight with the Woking-based outfit’s execution, particularly off the back of its Vegas outing.
“It was a strong reaction in terms of the result on track. We understood why we found ourselves in that unfortunate circumstance. I’m very proud. Our culture was tested by a hard situation,” he began.
The Italian emphasised that the Las Vegas setback had only strengthened the team’s resolve.
“We emerged even stronger and aware that we have more work to do to avoid facing those situations again. At the same time, we proved we have a really strong team that we can be proud of,” he added.
Looking ahead to the remainder of the weekend, the 54-year-old highlighted the importance of fine-tuning the car and carrying their momentum into qualifying.
“It was important to transfer that reaction and response to what we do trackside. A good result in the Sprint Qualifying and the Sprint today. There are some aspects to improve in terms of car balance, especially on Lando’s side. There’s high tyre wear and graining, and we would like to have a bit more pace. A lot of work to do before qualifying,” he concluded.
The Qatar Grand Prix weekend has continued to pan out in a desirable manner for the McLaren team. After clinching Sprint pole with Oscar Piastri, the Australian driver also claimed victory in the Sprint, with his teammate Lando Norris finishing in third place.
Piastri delighted with Sprint win
Earlier, Piastri expressed his delight with his victory in the Sprint race. The 24-year-old dubbed his outing as pleasing, stating things went smoothly throughout the race.
The McLaren driver stressed the need to continue in such stride as he continues his pursuit of his maiden drivers’ championship.
Enjoy GPblog’s paddock update
Stay in on the action as the Qatar Grand Prix weekend unfolds. Enjoy every inside scoop and analysis from the F1 paddock as the action continues at the Lusail International Circuit.
Follow and subscribe to our channels on YouTube and Spotify to ensure you don't miss a moment of the action.
Check out the latest episode of our update here 👇
Popular on GPBlog
Aston Martin has informed staff following rumors about Horner’s arrival
Marko identifies Verstappen's problem during Sprint Qualifying
What Norris needs to do to clinch his first drivers' title in Qatar GP