• McLaren launch

McLaren unveils its MP4-26

ESPNF1 Staff
February 4, 2011 « Coulthard urges 'realistic expectations' over di Resta | »
Lewis Hamilton and Jenson Button pose with the new MP4-26 © Sutton Images
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McLaren has unveiled its new MP4-26 car which it hopes will enable Jenson Button and Lewis Hamilton to challenge for the title in 2011.

Although most teams ran their new machines in Valencia this week, the first of four test outings ahead of season opener in Bahrain, McLaren held back and rushed to Berlin overnight for the official launch. By waiting as late as possible, the team hopes it has given itself as much time as possible to be ready for the first race.

The new McLaren will run at the second pre-season test in Jerez next week.

The MP4-26 features extensively sculpted sidepods and a novel engine-cover design featuring two air inlets.

"We've seen it in the wind tunnel but this is the first time we've seen it all together and it looks even better in full size," said Hamilton.

"This is our new baby," Button added. "[It's] the car we hope will take one of us to the drivers' championship and the team to win the constructors'. It's beautiful."

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