McLaren confirms launch date for 2018 F1 car

McLaren will unveil its new Formula 1 car for the 2018 season, the MCL33, on February 23 ahead of the start of pre-season testing.

Following three difficult years with Honda, McLaren will link up with new engine supplier Renault for 2018, with the new McLaren-Renault MCL33 due to be unveiled three days before the start of testing in Barcelona.

McLaren confirmed the launch date for its new car on Thursday via Twitter. McLaren will enter the 2018 season aiming to end a barren run of form that has seen it fail to record a podium finish in F1 since the 2014 Australian Grand Prix.

History assembles. #MCL33 launch 23.02.18. #BeBrave pic.twitter.com/ZzxvXgBRZS

— McLaren (@McLarenF1) January 18, 2018

The team's ill-fated tie-up with Honda came to an end in 2017 after three difficult years, with the Japanese manufacturer linking up with Toro Rosso from next season.

McLaren has set its sights on being more competitive with a Renault power unit, having long hailed its confidence in its chassis, and will once again be led by drivers Fernando Alonso and Stoffel Vandoorne.

McLaren will also have British youngster Lando Norris as part of its on-site team for the 2018 season, acting as its official reserve and third driver alongside his Formula 2 racing commitments.