While Mercedes have controlled the opening rounds, the unexpected April break has handed rival teams a crucial window to close the gap.
With the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix cancelled due to regional conflict, development has taken centre stage across the grid.
According to Sky Sports F1 commentator David Croft, McLaren are preparing a significant step forward. Speaking on the Sky F1 podcast, Croft revealed the team are already encouraged by the data coming from their simulator.
“I think McLaren have a big, big upgrade coming in Miami that they’re already very pleased with in terms of the numbers,” he explained.
The momentum has already been building on track, particularly through Oscar Piastri. The Australian delivered an impressive drive at the Japanese Grand Prix, finishing second and becoming the first driver this season to beat both Kimi Antonelli and George Russell in a race result.
Piastri’s performance at Suzuka hinted at even more potential. He had taken control of the race before a safety car, triggered by Oliver Bearman’s heavy crash, reshaped the outcome. Antonelli capitalised on the interruption to take victory, but Croft believes the result could easily have gone the other way.
“I think Oscar Piastri might have won without the safety car,” Croft said. “He had track position and looked so comfortable out there.”
Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur has also predicted a shift in the competitive order, suggesting Miami could feel like “a different championship” once upgrades arrive.
The next race, the Miami Grand Prix, takes place from 3 May at the Miami International Autodrome. As the fourth round of the season, it now carries added significance, with teams expected to unveil major developments that could redefine the title fight.
Mercedes may have set the early pace, but with McLaren rising and others ready to respond, the battle for supremacy looks far from settled.
