McLaren Making Life “Difficult” for Lewis Hamilton with an “Extreme” MCL39

As the 2025 Formula 1 season approaches, McLaren is gearing up for an intense battle—especially with Lewis Hamilton’s blockbuster move to Ferrari. With a radical new design for their MCL39, McLaren boss Andrea Stella has made their mission clear: they plan to make life “difficult” for Hamilton and Ferrari in their pursuit of championship glory.

McLaren vs. Ferrari: A Fierce Rivalry Renewed

The 2024 Formula 1 season saw McLaren and Ferrari locked in a tight battle for the World Constructors’ Championship (WCC). After a remarkable turnaround in performance, McLaren edged out Ferrari by just 14 points, securing the coveted title.

Now, with Hamilton leaving Mercedes for Ferrari, the Scuderia is expected to be an even bigger threat in 2025. But McLaren is not backing down. Andrea Stella, speaking to Sky Sports F1, acknowledged Hamilton’s move as a historic moment but emphasized that McLaren’s primary focus is staying ahead.

“To be honest, as a fan of Formula 1, I felt excited to see a seven-time World Champion going to Ferrari. But ultimately, what counts is what happens on track.”

That’s where McLaren’s aggressive approach comes in.

McLaren’s “Extreme” MCL39: A Game-Changer?

One of the biggest talking points heading into 2025 is McLaren’s “very extreme” design for the MCL39. While the details remain under wraps, reports suggest McLaren has strategically identified key overlaps between the 2025 and 2026 regulations, allowing them to implement future-focused innovations a year ahead of schedule.

According to Italian publication Gazzetta, this approach could give McLaren a crucial edge in the transition period before the full implementation of the 2026 regulations.

However, Ferrari is also working aggressively on their own developments, with a major focus on pull-rod suspension to improve overall car balance and aerodynamics.

With both teams making bold moves, the 2025 season could be one of the most competitive in years.

Hamilton’s Ferrari Era: The Biggest Threat to McLaren?

With Lewis Hamilton joining Charles Leclerc at Ferrari, expectations are sky-high. After spending over a decade at Mercedes, Hamilton is looking to bring Ferrari back to the top—a team that hasn’t won a drivers’ title since 2007 or a constructors’ title since 2008.

While Ferrari fans are dreaming of a golden era, McLaren is determined to spoil the party. Stella made it clear:

“We will try and make life a little bit difficult.”

McLaren’s confidence is bolstered by the continued rise of Lando Norris, who challenged Max Verstappen in multiple races last season. If McLaren’s radical MCL39 delivers as expected, Norris could emerge as a serious title contender.

2025: A Season of High Stakes

With McLaren’s bold design, Ferrari’s aggressive development, and Lewis Hamilton’s quest for an eighth title, the 2025 Formula 1 season is shaping up to be legendary.