McLaren have solidified their dominance in the 2025 Formula 1 season thanks to solid performances by Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri.
After 12 rounds, the Woking-based team have amassed a commanding 238-point lead in the constructors’ standings, showcasing a level of performance that has left the paddock in awe.
In the drivers’ championship, McLaren’s Oscar Piastri holds an eight-point advantage over teammate Lando Norris, while Red Bull’s Max Verstappen trails by 69 points in third.
The team have claimed victory in nine grands prix this season, with Mercedes, Ferrari, and Red Bull struggling to mount a consistent challenge against the papaya-colored machines.
Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc and Mercedes’ George Russell have both admitted their teams are perplexed by McLaren’s superiority. “If we knew, we wouldn’t have fallen back, to be honest,” Russell told reporters.
“They’re very strong on tire management and in hot conditions. Their upgrades are clearly working as planned, and they’ve found a development path that’s paying off. With these regulations, it’s tough, and we’re all looking forward to the 2026 reset with new power units, though that brings its own challenges.”
Ferrari, the only top team without a win this season, have been particularly inconsistent.
Leclerc echoed Russell’s sentiments, emphasizing that McLaren’s edge comes from multiple factors. “I wish I knew what makes them so fast,” Leclerc said. “They’ve made a significant step forward, which nobody expected in the final year of these regulations when performance usually converges. It’s not just one thing—it’s many details they’re doing better than others.”
Leclerc pointed to Piastri’s stunning pole position lap in Bahrain as a defining moment. “I’m still wondering how Oscar did that lap time in the heat,” he added. “It was one of those laps that leaves you speechless, and you don’t understand where the performance comes from.
“They’ve found something special, especially in warm conditions and with tire performance, that we’re still trying to figure out.”
Recent updates from McLaren’s official X account highlight their confidence heading into the next race, with the team posting: “Another strong weekend for the team. We’re focused on keeping the momentum at Spa!”
Meanwhile, Ferrari’s X posts show determination to turn their season around, with Leclerc noting: “We’re working hard to unlock the car’s potential. Spa is a chance to fight back.”
The Formula 1 season continues with the Belgian Grand Prix, set for 44 laps around the iconic 7.004-kilometer Spa-Francorchamps circuit on Sunday, July 27, where McLaren will aim to extend their relentless charge.
