McLaren CEO Zak Brown admits he can’t wait for Formula 1 to hit the reset button when new regulations come into effect in 2021.
Having been predominantly part of the midfield since 2013, the British team is one of several outfits hoping to end the domination of the top three teams when all-new cars and a budget cap come into effect the year after next.
And though initially, most expect the bigger spend of Mercedes, Ferrari and Red Bull to keep them ahead, the McLaren chief is hoping to be as close as possible.
“Everyone’s going to be in the same boat, in the sense of 2021 is going to be such a change from 2020 that everyone’s going to be starting from a clean sheet of paper – but we’re up for it,” Brown said via Crash.net.
“It’s one of the reasons we made an early decision, to give ourselves as much time as possible. I think 2021’s going to be exciting for Formula 1 and for the fans because when there’s a big change like that, someone’s going to get it right; someone’s going to get it wrong.
“The trend is to converge over time but I’m excited for the 2021 season – but also excited for 2020, of course.”
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And as for next season, McLaren head into the new decade with momentum on their side having finished fourth in the Constructors’ standings this year and scored over 100 points for the first time since 2014.
“I think it’s been a big achievement, given where we’ve been the last couple of years,” the American CEO reflected. “I think the team’s done an excellent job, both at the factory and at the track. Everyone is contributing.
“Renault has played a big part in us getting more competitive again. They’ve been a fantastic partner.
“Drivers are doing a very good job, bringing the car home and in the points often, so it’s certainly been a pleasure racing this year when I look back to Abu Dhabi last year.”