The McLaren F1 Team continued its momentum with a stunning double podium finish at the 2023 Japanese Grand Prix, as Lando Norris claimed second place and Oscar Piastri achieved his maiden Formula 1 podium in third. The impressive performance came with the MCL60 race car showcasing the striking OKX Stealth Mode livery, a collaborative design between McLaren and OKX that symbolizes innovation, precision, and the evolution of modern motorsport.
This result marks McLaren’s second consecutive podium streak, following Norris’ second-place finish at the Singapore Grand Prix just a week earlier. Driving under the sleek black and papaya-themed livery, the team delivered a masterclass in consistency, strategy, and speed on one of F1’s most demanding circuits—Suzuka International Racing Course.
A Statement of Speed and Style: The OKX Stealth Mode Livery
The OKX Stealth Mode livery made its debut during an exclusive media event in Singapore on September 13, attended by key figures including OKX Chief Marketing Officer Haider Rafique, McLaren drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, and McLaren Racing Executive Director Matt Dennington. The design blends minimalist aesthetics with bold branding, featuring deep black accents contrasted against McLaren’s iconic papaya orange trim.
Emblazoned across the rear wing of the MCL60 is the phrase “Accelerating Web3”—a clear nod to OKX’s mission to drive innovation in digital ecosystems. The livery isn’t just visually striking; it represents a shared philosophy between two forward-thinking organizations committed to pushing boundaries in technology and performance.
“The MCL60 in OKX Stealth Mode looked amazing on the track here in Suzuka,” said Haider Rafique, CMO of OKX. “We're thrilled to see Oscar and Lando back on the podium again so soon after Singapore.”
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Norris Shines Again: Building Momentum for Championship Push
Lando Norris delivered another commanding drive at Suzuka, finishing just behind Max Verstappen but well ahead of the chasing pack. His performance underscores McLaren’s rapid development curve this season and highlights his growing reputation as one of F1’s most consistent midfield challengers.
“It was a very good day,” Norris said. “The pace was extremely strong today. We're not close to Max but we're not miles away either… I'm very proud of the steps forward we're making every weekend.”
Norris also praised the team’s strategic execution and celebrated teammate Oscar Piastri’s breakthrough moment—a shared triumph that marked McLaren’s first double podium of the 2023 season.
Piastri’s Maiden Podium: A Dream Realized
For rookie driver Oscar Piastri, the Japanese Grand Prix was nothing short of historic. Achieving his first Formula 1 podium in only his debut season, Piastri described the moment as unforgettable.
“This feels pretty special, and I'll remember it for a long, long time,” Piastri said. “Not many people get to have an F1 podium, and I've managed it in my first season… thank you very much team.”
Though he admitted it wasn’t his “best race ever,” Piastri found rhythm in the second half and held off pressure from rivals to secure a well-earned third place. His composure under pressure signals great promise for the remainder of the season.
Behind the Scenes: Technology, Innovation, and Web3 Integration
The collaboration between McLaren and OKX extends beyond paint schemes. As part of their partnership, both organizations are exploring ways to integrate Web3 technologies into fan engagement models—offering immersive experiences through NFTs, digital collectibles, and interactive platforms.
OKX has positioned itself as a leader in transparent digital asset ecosystems, publishing monthly Proof of Reserves reports and supporting major global events such as the Tribeca Festival and partnerships with elite sports franchises like Manchester City FC.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the significance of the OKX Stealth Mode livery?
A: The OKX Stealth Mode livery represents a fusion of motorsport excellence and Web3 innovation. Co-designed by McLaren and OKX, it reflects both brands’ commitment to progress, performance, and technological advancement.
Q: Was this Oscar Piastri’s first F1 podium?
A: Yes, Piastri achieved his maiden Formula 1 podium with a third-place finish at the 2023 Japanese Grand Prix—a historic moment in his rookie season.
Q: How many podiums has McLaren achieved in 2023 so far?
A: This double podium at Suzuka marked one of McLaren’s strongest performances of the year, adding to their growing tally that includes Norris’ second place in Singapore.
Q: What does ‘Accelerating Web3’ mean on the car?
A: It signifies OKX’s mission to drive adoption and innovation in blockchain, decentralized finance (DeFi), NFTs, and metaverse applications—bringing next-generation tech into mainstream visibility via F1.
Q: Is the Stealth Mode livery permanent?
A: No, it was introduced as a special edition design for select races, including Singapore and Japan, celebrating the McLaren-OKX partnership.
A Legacy of Excellence: McLaren Racing Through the Decades
Founded by Bruce McLaren in 1963, McLaren Racing has become one of the most storied names in motorsport history. With 20 Formula 1 World Championships, 183 Grand Prix victories, and triumphs at Le Mans and Indianapolis, the team continues to innovate across multiple racing disciplines.
In 2023, McLaren competes not only in Formula 1 but also in INDYCAR, Formula E, Extreme E, and F1 Esports—where its Shadow team won both Constructors’ and Drivers’ titles in 2022. The organization is also a signatory to the UN Sports for Climate Action Commitment, aiming for net-zero emissions by 2040.
Looking Ahead: Can McLaren Challenge for More?
With back-to-back podium finishes and visible improvements in car performance, McLaren appears poised for a strong second half of the season. The synergy between engineering upgrades and driver development—combined with strategic brand partnerships like OKX—is creating new momentum.
As Formula 1 continues to blend high-octane racing with digital transformation, teams like McLaren are leading the charge—not just on track, but in shaping the future of sports engagement.
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Core Keywords
- McLaren F1 Team
- OKX Stealth Mode livery
- Lando Norris
- Oscar Piastri
- Japanese Grand Prix
- Formula 1 2023
- Web3 in sports
- Double podium
This achievement at Suzuka isn’t just about points on a leaderboard—it’s a statement. A statement of resilience, growth, and vision. And as the MCL60 cuts through corners wrapped in stealth elegance, one thing is clear: McLaren is accelerating toward a bold new era.