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McLaren MCL33
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Analysis

Why first-class McLaren contains hidden gems

The 2018 season marks a year of big change for McLaren. There's plenty to be excited about from its new design beyond a change of engine supplier and a new paint job.

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After three years of Honda struggles, is McLaren ready to turn the corner and show its true potential? For the entire grid, the true measure of competitiveness is Mercedes. That team has dominated since the hybrid power unit regulations were introduced, but in the short  term, McLaren's immediate measure will be Red Bull and, possibly on a few occasions, the works Renault team.

Which of these three teams using the same power unit will come out on top?

On many occasions last season, Fernando Alonso stated the McLaren was the best chassis in the pitlane. Now, he should have the power unit to prove it. Even when the overall package wasn't up to the Mercedes level, Red Bull has still managed to pull off a few wins over the last few seasons, so assuming that Renault has burned the midnight oil on power unit development over the winter, 2018 will offer no hiding place for McLaren.

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