Eighteen months ago, McLaren looked like backmarkers. So how have they climbed to the top of F1's constructors' championship in such short order?

Formula 1 is enjoying an unprecedentedly close season in which any one of four teams can dominate on any given weekend – a mixed blessing, according to McLaren team principal Andrea Stella.

Qatar this weekend, and Abu Dhabi next – just 53 points lie between McLaren (608), Ferrari (584) and holders Red Bull (555), and there are 88 points up for grabs. Mercedes were one-two in Las Vegas but whatever happens next they will finish a lonely fourth.

Lando Norris and Lewis Hamilton were among those who spoke on media day ahead of the Qatar Grand Prix weekend - the penultimate race of the latter's Mercedes F1 career

Lando Norris quipped Max Verstappen could have a great comedy career after his bold title claim involving McLaren, Ferrari and Mercedes.

Max Verstappen said he would have won the 2024 F1 title in a McLaren after he secured a fourth consecutive championship in Las Vegas; watch Qatar GP Sprint weekend from Friday at 1.30pm, with Sprint Qualifying at 5.