How McLaren stayed on course with 2025 F1 Car while Red Bull lost their way

McLaren made sure their new car steered clear of those same issues. F1 technical expert Rosario Giuliana broke down how McLaren’s approach differed from Red Bull’s during a column for The Race:

How McLaren’s 2025 F1 car philosophy set them apart

McLaren’s 2025 campaign has been built around the strength of the MCL39, with the team posting four consecutive one-twos behind Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris.

Last year, McLaren held back on upgrades to their 2024 car, opting not to disrupt Norris’ title challenge. It was a patient approach that’s carried over into this season.

They’ve kept that approach going in 2025, and it’s paid off handsomely—McLaren now have more than twice as many points as second-placed Ferrari.

“The team’s philosophy was clear: introduce only safe and functional developments, avoiding risky packages,” Giuliana wrote.

“While McLaren only had to refine an excellent project, Red Bull instead showed the difficulties of a team that seems to have lost its ‘guiding path’.”

The differences between McLaren and Red Bull haven’t just been about speed – consistency has also played a key role. Giuliana noted that while Red Bull appeared unsettled without a clear development plan, McLaren stayed focused on building from an already strong base.

Red Bull hit hard by key departures

Red Bull have faced a difficult period since straying from the core design principles of this car era, and staff departures have only added to their troubles.

Adrian Newey’s exit in particular has left a noticeable gap. The team is no longer as sharp on race weekends and seems to be having trouble finding answers with their current car concept.

Christian Horner ultimately lost his job over it in July, with Red Bull’s owners deciding they’d seen enough after two decades in charge.

Meanwhile, McLaren have managed to pull everything together behind the scenes, translating that stability into results on track. They are now closing in on what would be their first Drivers’ Championship since 2008.