The McLaren Formula 1 Team continued its remarkable resurgence with a stunning double podium finish at the 2023 Japanese Grand Prix, as Lando Norris claimed second place and rookie Oscar Piastri achieved his maiden Formula 1 podium with a third-place finish. Driving the striking MCL60 race car adorned in the OKX Stealth Mode livery, the duo delivered a powerful performance at the legendary Suzuka International Racing Course—further cementing McLaren’s upward trajectory this season.
This result marks McLaren’s second consecutive podium streak, following Norris’ impressive second-place finish at the Singapore Grand Prix just one week earlier. The team’s consistent pace, strategic excellence, and driver synergy have positioned them as serious contenders in the constructors’ championship battle.
A Statement of Speed and Style at Suzuka
The MCL60, wrapped in the sleek Stealth Mode livery—a collaborative design between McLaren and OKX—cut a bold figure on the Suzuka circuit. The livery features a minimalist black finish accented by subtle papaya orange details, paying homage to McLaren’s iconic heritage while symbolizing a forward-thinking evolution. Most notably, the phrase “Accelerating Web3” emblazoned on the rear wing served as a visual reminder of the team’s innovative partnership with the Web3 technology leader.
The race itself was a masterclass in composure and execution. Norris maintained strong pressure on race winner Max Verstappen throughout, showcasing improved race-long pace and tire management. Meanwhile, Piastri, in only his rookie season, demonstrated maturity beyond his years by holding off challenges from seasoned rivals to secure third.
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Driver Reactions: Pride, Progress, and Promise
Lando Norris expressed immense satisfaction with the team’s progress, highlighting the significance of a double podium for McLaren’s momentum.
“Another amazing day for us. A P2 and a P3, the team did an amazing job and I’m very proud of the steps forward we’re making every weekend. We’re getting there. The pace was extremely strong today. We’re not close to Max but we’re not miles away either, so it was a very good day and I’m very happy. Congratulations to Oscar, his first podium in Formula One, our first double podium together. We've had two great performances running in the OKX Stealth Mode livery—so it's a brilliant moment for us.”
For Oscar Piastri, the moment was nothing short of historic.
“This feels pretty special, and I’ll remember it for a long, long time. I can’t thank the team enough for giving me this opportunity. Not many people get to have an F1 podium, and I’ve managed it in my first season, so thank you very much team. It wasn’t my best race ever, but it was enough to get a trophy. Our pace was strong, and I think in the second half of the race I got more into a rhythm. I’m super-happy and very excited to try and get some more.”
Piastri’s achievement makes him one of the few drivers in recent history to reach the podium in their debut F1 season—a testament to both his talent and McLaren’s robust driver development program.
OKX Partnership: Innovation Meets Performance
The collaboration between McLaren and OKX extends beyond branding. As the team’s Official Primary Partner, OKX brings not only visibility but also a shared ethos of innovation, precision, and digital transformation. The Stealth Mode livery was unveiled at an exclusive media event in Singapore on September 13, attended by key figures including OKX CMO Haider Rafique and McLaren leadership.
Haider Rafique praised the team’s consistency:
"The whole McLaren F1 team did an incredible job tonight, and we're thrilled to see Oscar and Lando back on the podium again so soon after Singapore. The MCL60 in OKX Stealth Mode looked amazing on the track here in Suzuka, and we can't wait to see what the rest of the season holds for McLaren."
The integration of Web3 themes into Formula 1 represents a broader shift in motorsport sponsorships—moving from traditional branding toward deeper technological storytelling. This synergy aligns perfectly with younger audiences who value digital engagement and innovation.
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Behind the Scenes: Engineering Excellence
While driver performances grabbed headlines, McLaren’s pit wall strategy and engineering team played a crucial role. Tire choice, timing of pit stops, and real-time data analysis allowed both cars to maintain optimal track position throughout changing conditions.
The MCL60 has undergone significant aerodynamic refinements since pre-season testing, particularly in low-speed corner stability and drag reduction—key factors at a technical circuit like Suzuka. These upgrades are believed to have contributed directly to the car’s improved race pace compared to earlier rounds.
McLaren Racing Executive Director Matt Dennington emphasized the importance of continuity:
“We’ve been methodical in our development approach. Every weekend, we gather data, make calculated improvements, and trust the process. What you’re seeing now is the result of that discipline.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the OKX Stealth Mode livery?
A: The OKX Stealth Mode livery is a special design collaboration between McLaren and OKX, featuring a black-based aesthetic with papaya orange accents and the slogan “Accelerating Web3.” It symbolizes innovation and the integration of digital technology in modern motorsport.
Q: Was this Oscar Piastri’s first F1 podium?
A: Yes, Piastri’s third-place finish at the 2023 Japanese Grand Prix marked his first career podium in Formula 1—a significant milestone achieved during his debut season.
Q: How many podiums has McLaren scored in 2023 so far?
A: As of the Japanese Grand Prix, McLaren has secured multiple podium finishes, including second-place results for Norris in Australia, Austria, and Singapore, culminating in their first double podium of the season at Suzuka.
Q: What does OKX do as McLaren’s partner?
A: OKX is McLaren’s Official Primary Partner and supports the team through branding, digital innovation initiatives, and fan engagement programs focused on Web3 education and blockchain technology.
Q: Where did Max Verstappen finish?
A: Max Verstappen won the 2023 Japanese Grand Prix, continuing Red Bull Racing’s dominant form this season. Norris finished second, just over 15 seconds behind.
Q: Will the Stealth Mode livery appear in future races?
A: While special liveries are typically used for select events, McLaren may bring back variations of the design for key races or promotional campaigns tied to their partnership with OKX.
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Looking Ahead: Momentum Builds
With back-to-back podiums and growing confidence within the garage, McLaren is poised to challenge for third place in the constructors’ standings as the season enters its final phase. Upcoming circuits like Austin, Mexico City, and São Paulo offer opportunities where downforce efficiency and tire management—areas where the MCL60 now excels—could yield further strong results.
Fans around the world are witnessing not just a revival of form but a redefinition of what McLaren stands for: speed, innovation, and fearless ambition.
As the Stealth Mode livery continues to turn heads on track, it serves as more than just paint—it’s a symbol of transformation. And with Norris and Piastri now proving they can consistently battle at the front, the future of McLaren F1 looks brighter than ever.