McLaren make key F1 revelation ahead of Australian GP

McLaren team principal Andrea Stella has issued an insight into how his team is likely to roll out of the garage at the season-opening Australian Grand Prix.

Albert Park in Melbourne hosts the first round of the new season this weekend and will see the competitive debut of the new cars.

Teams spent pre-season testing getting up to speed with the challengers that have seen major changes to both the aerodynamic and power unit regulations.

Having had almost two weeks to analyse data, Stella insisted that only minor upgrades will be fitted to the car for the opening event.

"The car we bring to Albert Park will largely be the same specification seen in Bahrain, with some minor aerodynamic refinements," he said.

"We will continue working on important aspects such as weight reduction and optimisation of weight distribution, as well as unlocking further potential from the power unit."

McLaren enter the year looking to add to its championship success last year, when it topped both the drivers' and constructors' standings.

However, it has maintained throughout the pre-season period that it is not a favourite for the year ahead, pointing out that rival teams have an advantage.

But Stella insisted he is enjoying the prospect of the unknown.

"This season is an exciting but complex challenge and it's great to be back racing again, it's the reason why we're in the sport," he said.

"We're looking forward to finally putting the cards on the table in Melbourne and seeing where we truly stand as the first races unfold.

"Everybody at McLaren has played an important role in getting the MCL40 to track, but the hard work starts now, and we embrace the task ahead."