McLaren unveil MCL34 car

Picture credit: McLaren Racing

Picture credit: McLaren Racing

Picture credit: McLaren Racing

Picture credit: McLaren Racing

Picture credit: McLaren Racing

Picture credit: McLaren Racing

McLaren Racing, on Thursday, presented its first all-new Formula 1 driver line-up in 12 years, as Carlos Sainz and Lando Norris watched 34 of their McLaren team-mates unveil the MCL34, the team’s 2019 race car, ahead of pre-season testing next week.

This year, Sainz (24) begins his fifth F1 campaign, while Norris (19) embarks on his debut season.

Carlos Sainz (L) and Lando Norris. Picture credit: McLaren Racing

The 2019 McLaren MCL34 is powered by the Renault E-Tech 19 engine.

The MCL34 livery is the iconic McLaren papaya orange, echoing the colour chosen by Bruce McLaren for the team’s first Formula 1 Grand Prix entry in 1966.

The MCL34 will make its on-track debut during pre-season testing at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya in Spain (18-21 February & 26 February - 1 March). Sainz and Norris will share the driving duties across both tests.

Sainz said: “I’m really looking forward to the tests and excited to finally go racing in McLaren colours. I know everyone at the factory has been working very hard over the winter to prepare ourselves for this year and I think the team has done a fantastic job with the livery of the MCL34.”

Norris said: “Next stop, Barcelona! Seriously, I can’t wait to get behind the wheel in testing. I’ve been working hard over the winter preparing for my step up to F1. I’ve spent a lot of time with the team in the factory too, learning as much as I can to get ready for the 2019 season.

“It’s been my dream to get to Formula 1 since I was a kid. I gained useful experience behind the wheel during practice sessions in 2018, and now I’m really looking forward to making my race debut with McLaren. The MCL34 looks great and now I just want to drive it.”