McLaren Seeks Alternative Hospitality Solution for Austrian GP After Fire Incident

McLaren opts for a different F1 hospitality setup for the upcoming Austrian Grand Prix

McLaren is set to acquire a different F1 hospitality setup for the upcoming Austrian Grand Prix, according to information obtained by Crash.net.

Intense moments occurred at the Barcelona Formula 1 paddock on Saturday just before the last practice session, as McLaren’s team quarters were forced to clear out due to a presumed electrical blaze starting near the kitchen zone.

Promptly responding, emergency personnel and firefighters arrived on the scene to manage the crisis effectively. A member of the McLaren team was transported to the hospital for safety reasons but was subsequently released.

Crash.net has learned that the damage primarily affects a specific section of the unit and is not overly severe. The primary issue for McLaren now is the elimination of the smoke odor.

The FIA, which oversees Formula 1, is accommodating McLaren's team members and visitors throughout the rest of the Spanish Grand Prix weekend, due to their Team Hub being unavailable.

It's premature to speculate on McLaren's plans for the British Grand Prix at Silverstone on July 7. However, for the upcoming race in Austria next week, the British team will arrange for a different hospitality unit to serve as an interim solution.

At this point, it remains uncertain if it will be a pre-used motorhome from another team.

Following his top qualifying spot for the Spanish Grand Prix, Lando Norris shared insights into how a fire affected McLaren's setup activities on Saturday.

Norris was observed departing from McLaren's guest area barefoot, apparently having misplaced his footwear amidst the evacuation.

"Norris highlighted that the most positive aspect is that everyone is safe and in good health. He mentioned that this is the most significant outcome from the situation. Although one individual was transported to the hospital for an evaluation, everything else is fine."

"The experience was somewhat alarming for the entire group, certainly not pleasant. It turned out to be a day filled with more stress than I would have preferred."

The young British driver, aged 24, also extended his gratitude towards competing teams for their support to McLaren after the fire incident.

He clarified, "I haven't stayed in my usual space. I haven't had the chance to unwind and relax as much as I typically would."

"I've received numerous propositions from various individuals, which has been wonderful. Many of the teams, to tell the truth, have shown tremendous kindness towards us at McLaren by extending their support and assistance. So, from that perspective, everything has been positive."

"Unfortunately, it seems unlikely that it will be put to use either today or tomorrow, and possibly not even in the foreseeable future, though I can't say for certain beyond that."

Explore Further

Recent Updates

Recent Updates

Site Navigation

Crash.Net

©1999-2024 Crash Media Group

Copying or replicating the content, images, or artwork in full or in part is strictly prohibited.