McLaren will be granted permission to make necessary changes to its 2020 car next year in order for it to accommodate Mercedes’ power unit.
McLaren announced last September that it would switch from Renault to Mercedes power for 2021, coinciding with the introduction of Formula 1’s overhauled regulations.
But the ongoing coronavirus pandemic has prompted Formula 1 to undertake drastic measures, which include a 12-month delay to the new rules.
As part of the changes, aimed at alleviating costs where possible for teams, 2020 chassis will be used next season.
The details of which components will be frozen has not yet been revealed but McLaren has been given assurances that it will be allowed to make the necessary changes to its car.
“From the outset, we have been a leading supporter of the new sporting and technical regulations for 2021,” said McLaren boss Andreas Seidl.
“They present the opportunity to deliver an exciting new era for Formula 1.
“Nevertheless, there is no escaping the severity of the pressures faced by the sport right now.
“In the same way that decision to introduce the new regulations was aimed at improving the long-term health of Formula 1, the decision to postpone them has been made in the same vein.
“We support the postponement and have played an active part in the conversation around doing so.
“We recognise that it is crucial to protect the financial health of all the teams while ensuring a level playing field when we do go racing.”
McLaren most recently used Mercedes power units in 2014.
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