McLaren unveils MP4-26posted in F104 | 02 | 2011

McLAREN HAS UNVEILED the car it believes will take it to both the drivers' and constructors' world championship. The new McLaren MP4-26 was revealed in Berlin today after the team used an interim MP4-25 during this week's test in Valencia.

The new McLaren features some interesting concepts, including a long flat high nose, radical, high L-shaped sidepods, and airbox tweaks. The version which was rolled out on to the Berlin street is fitted with a more standard exhaust layout, unlike the Renault version seen in testing at Valencia.

And while Jenson Button is convinced McLaren did the right thing in waiting as long as possible to unveil its new car, team-mate Lewis Hamilton immediately stated he's already eyeing the title with his new car.

"I hope the car proves just as innovative once we take to the track next week," the 2008 world champ said. "I head into 2011 in a relaxed but determined frame of mind.

"I've spared nothing during my winter fitness preparations, and in many ways I feel as fit, focused and refreshed as I did ahead of my first season in Formula 1 in 2007.

"Having spent the past few weeks talking with our designers and engineers, I feel extremely happy we've created a car that will once again allow us to fight at the front.

"This will be my fifth season in F1, so my aim for this year is to ensure everything comes together in the best possible way and that, like last year, I'm able to fight for the title right down to the final race.

"Of course, Jenson and I will be racing alongside three fellow world champions in 2011, and that's a testament to the strength of Formula 1 right now.

"It's incredibly hard to say who'll be up at the front, but I'm an absolute racer and I'm looking forward to some fantastic, close racing and another thrilling conclusion to the season — hopefully with a McLaren driver on top!"

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