McLaren Debuts Special Dragon Livery at Japan GP

This weekend, McLaren F1 unveils a unique livery for the Japanese Grand Prix, inspired by Edo art and dragon motifs.

McLaren F1 will sport its first special livery at the Japanese Grand Prix this weekend. The MCL38s will feature blue and white with dragon motifs soaring through clouds. The design is created by the artist MILTZ, specializing in the Edo period and Edomoji calligraphy. The drivers’ numbers will also change for the occasion.

Lando Norris looks forward to assessing the team’s performance in Japan at a Suzuka circuit he loves and where the team finished second and third last year.

“I’m excited for the Japanese Grand Prix; it’s one of my favorite tracks, and it’s always fun to see all the fans, who are always so passionate. We’re also racing in a special livery, which looks really cool,” Norris said.

After clinching their first podium in Melbourne, the team atmosphere is understandably positive: “It was great to be back at the MTC last week to celebrate our result at the Australian GP with everyone at the factory.”

“I’ve reviewed the data collected in Australia and prepared for the next race with my engineers. So far, the start of the season has been satisfying for us, and we’re committed to moving forward and continuing to compete with our rivals.”

Confirming McLaren is “on the right track”

Oscar Piastri, who secured his first Grand Prix podium at Suzuka last year, is naturally eager to return. The Australian is pleased McLaren is celebrating this event with a special decoration paying tribute to the host country.

“The Japanese Grand Prix brings back good memories with my first Grand Prix podium and a double podium for the team. After a fourth place in Australia where we were in the fight, we’re even more determined to continue making progress in the hope of achieving another good result,” Piastri states.

“I really like the livery we’ll be using in Japan. I’m also looking forward to seeing all the fans and experiencing the enthusiastic atmosphere they always bring. It’s a great circuit to race on, and a nice place to be.”

Andrea Stella, McLaren’s director, hopes to repeat the successful weekend of 2023 at Suzuka but remains cautious of the competition, though Norris’s podium in Melbourne is encouraging for the team before heading to Japan.

“After our success in Australia, we now turn our attention to Japan. The Suzuka circuit is always a fan and driver favorite. While the track’s nature can present some challenges, it makes for great racing,” Stella declared.

“While this circuit has been favorable to us in the past, we must keep in mind the progress we still have to make. However, our podium in Australia reminds us that we are on the right track. We just need to continue focusing on ourselves and executing our plan, and the results will follow.”

McLaren Debuts Special Dragon Livery at Japan GP. McLaren Debuts Special Dragon Livery at Japan GP