The MCL38's first fire-up

Fire-up is a significant milestone in car build and you can watch the team’s reaction as our 2024 challenger comes to life in the video above. Earlier in January, the team revealed the livery of our 2024 car, with the actual MCL38 set to be unveiled for the first time on 14 February.

We’ll then head to pre-season testing on 21 - 23 February at the Bahrain International Circuit ahead of the opening race of the season at the same track on 29 February - 2 March.

Don’t forget to download the McLaren App, keep an eye on our official website, and follow the team on social media for further updates ahead of the new season.

Piers Thynne, Chief Operating Officer, McLaren F1, said:

“I am delighted to say that we have successfully fired-up the MCL38 for the first time.

“The first fire-up is a key milestone in car build, which we have successfully achieved ahead of plan.

“This is a significant moment for each and every person in the factory and a testament to our quality of teamwork and collaboration.

“It’s a proud moment for everyone in the team and the culmination of a lot of hard work from all of our people.

“I would like to thank everyone for their continued efforts and hard work, fire-up is confirmation that we’re on track and that everything is working.

“We now need to keep the momentum going with total focus and continued collaboration towards on-track running.”