The buzz around the Formula 1 paddock this season is not just about the cars, but also about the faces behind the machines. As teams grapple with technical regulations and flexi-wing controversies, McLaren claims their “secret weapon” lies not in technology, but in leadership.
As the 2025 Formula 1 season unfolds, McLaren has emerged as a formidable force, swiftly capturing victories in the Australian and Chinese Grand Prix. This impressive start comes amidst ongoing discussions about the sport’s flexi-wing saga, a technical matter that has teams and regulators watching each other closely. The FIA launched a new crackdown, deploying rear-facing cameras to keep an eye on rear wing flexing. Initially, all teams, McLaren included, complied with the regulations, but the agency continued to tighten its scrutinies.
However, McLaren’s team principal, Andrea Stella, is hailed by CEO Zak Brown as their “real secret weapon.” According to Brown, Stella is the finest team principal in the sport, significantly contributing to McLaren’s early triumphs. Known for his past work with legends like Michael Schumacher and Fernando Alonso, Stella boasts a track record that’s hard to beat. Since stepping into his role at McLaren in 2023, he has guided the team from underperformance to being Constructors’ Champions.
Zak Brown, in a conversation with Sky F1, highlighted teamwork and strategy as crucial components of their recent achievements. While Lando Norris had to manage a brake pedal issue in Melbourne, the team’s strategic prowess and solid driver lineup proved essential. Brown emphasized the seamless partnership between drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, describing them as “at the top of their game.” Their harmony and focus contribute notably to the team’s dynamics.
With Norris currently leading the Drivers’ Championship and McLaren ahead in the Constructors’ standings, the focus remains on maintaining stability and excellence. Stella’s leadership is seen as critical, as reinforced by his recent contract extension. Similarly, Piastri’s contract reflects McLaren’s commitment to cultivating a cohesive environment. Brown points out the importance of stability within the team, which seems to be paying dividends as they navigate the complexities of Formula 1.
Meanwhile, the rest of the grid continues to watch McLaren closely, especially with past speculations from Red Bull’s technical director, Pierre Wache, hinting that McLaren and Ferrari might be pushing the boundaries. Yet, Brown remains confident in McLaren’s integrity and focus, attributing their recent glory to the collective efforts of the entire team, both at the McLaren Technology Centre and on the track.
In a season where every advantage counts, McLaren’s emphasis on leadership and teamwork, led by Andrea Stella, is steering them toward success. As technological debates continue to ripple through the sport, McLaren’s approach underscores the value of strategy and skilled management, demonstrating that sometimes, the human element is the greatest competitive edge.
