Story perspectives

McLaren's Andrea Stella Slams Mercedes for Engine Secrets

3/9/2026

Summary

Story summary

McLaren team principal Andrea Stella criticized Mercedes for not sharing engine information after the Australian Grand Prix, where Lando Norris finished 51 seconds behind George Russell.
McLaren, the reigning constructors' champions, finished well behind Mercedes and felt "on the back foot" as a customer team.
Stella called for closer collaboration with Mercedes High Performance Powertrains to exploit the power unit's potential and improve performance in upcoming races.

History

Historical Context

In 2009, the FIA introduced engine-sharing regulations to enhance competition in Formula One, prompting teams like Brawn GP and McLaren to partner with Mercedes for engines. Brawn GP's innovative double diffuser design contributed to their championship success that year. Currently, McLaren's Andrea Stella criticizes Mercedes for withholding engine data, underscoring the ongoing challenges of collaboration and performance parity in the sport.

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Story summary

McLaren team principal Andrea Stella criticized Mercedes for not sharing engine information after the Australian Grand Prix, where Lando Norris finished 51 seconds behind George Russell.
McLaren, the reigning constructors' champions, finished well behind Mercedes and felt "on the back foot" as a customer team.
Stella called for closer collaboration with Mercedes High Performance Powertrains to exploit the power unit's potential and improve performance in upcoming races.

1 / 2