McLaren’s Magnificent Milestone: Ranking Their 10 Teams’ Championship Triumphs
In a triumphant display of speed and strategy, McLaren Racing celebrated a significant milestone in 2025, clinching their 10th Teams’ Championship at the Singapore Grand Prix. This victory marks an extraordinary journey through the annals of Formula 1 history, highlighted by a remarkable tally of 12 wins, 28 podiums, and an impressive 650 points with six races still remaining in the season. As fans and analysts alike reflect on this achievement, the question arises: how does this latest championship compare to McLaren’s previous title-winning seasons?
This is a ranking of each of McLaren’s 10 Teams’ Championships, from their inaugural victory in 1974 to this latest success, considering the evolution of the sport, including changes to the points system and race formats.
10. 1985: A Foundation of Success
Drivers: Niki Lauda and Alain Prost
Races: 16 | Wins: 6 | Podiums: 12 | Points: 90
The 1985 season, while successful, ranks last due to a relatively lower winning percentage. Following their dominant 1984 campaign, McLaren faced fierce competition, yet Alain Prost and Niki Lauda still secured their third Teams’ Championship with a mix of skill and strategic racing.
9. 1990: Tensions and Triumph
Drivers: Ayrton Senna and Gerhard Berger
Races: 16 | Wins: 6 | Podiums: 18 | Points: 121
In a season marked by controversy, Senna and Berger brought home the Teams’ title despite internal rivalries and a dramatic collision with Alain Prost at the Japanese Grand Prix. This championship solidified McLaren’s place at the top, albeit with a narrow margin over Ferrari.
8. 1991: A Four-Time Champion
Drivers: Ayrton Senna and Gerhard Berger
Races: 16 | Wins: 8 | Podiums: 18 | Points: 139
The 1991 championship saw McLaren win their fourth consecutive title, highlighting Ayrton Senna’s dominance as he secured his first home victory in Brazil. Despite increased competition from Williams, the team maintained their edge, further establishing their legacy.
7. 1974: The Dawn of a New Era
Drivers: Emerson Fittipaldi and Denny Hulme
Races: 15 | Wins: 4 | Podiums: 10 | Points: 73
McLaren’s first Teams’ Championship in 1974 was a historic moment, marking their arrival in Formula 1 after years of hard work. This victory was especially poignant, coming shortly after the passing of team founder Bruce McLaren, and it ignited a flame of ambition that drove the team forward.
6. 2024: A Resurgence
Drivers: Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri
Races: 24 | Wins: 6 | Podiums: 21 | *Points:* 666
Despite a lower win percentage, the 2024 championship was crucial for McLaren’s resurgence in the sport. After a challenging previous season, strategic upgrades propelled them to compete fiercely against Red Bull, culminating in their first Teams’ title since 1998.
5. 1998: A Comeback Story
Drivers: Mika Hakkinen and David Coulthard
Races: 16 | Wins: 9 | Podiums: 20 | Points: 156
The 1998 season marked a comeback for McLaren, with the introduction of new regulations allowing them to reclaim their dominance. Mika Hakkinen’s rivalry with Michael Schumacher added drama, culminating in a spectacular victory that brought both the Drivers’ and Teams’ Championships home.
4. 1989: A Year of Rivalry
Drivers: Alain Prost and Ayrton Senna
Races: 16 | Wins: 10 | Podiums: 18 | Points: 141
The fierce rivalry between Senna and Prost characterized the 1989 season, leading to iconic moments on the track. Despite internal tensions, McLaren secured the Teams’ title, even as Senna’s controversial disqualification from the Japanese Grand Prix handed the Drivers’ Championship to Prost.
3. 2025: A Dominant Display
Drivers: Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri
Races: 24 (18 completed) | Wins: 12 | Podiums: 28 | Points: 650
Currently unfolding, the 2025 season showcases McLaren’s dominance, leading to their latest Teams’ Championship victory. With multiple 1-2 finishes and a commanding lead over rivals, this season is already being hailed as one of the team’s greatest achievements.
2. 1984: Turbocharged Triumph
Drivers: Niki Lauda and Alain Prost
Races: 16 | Wins: 12 | Podiums: 18 | Points: 143.5
The 1984 season marked a remarkable turnaround for McLaren, powered by a turbocharged engine. Despite a nail-biting finish in the Drivers’ Championship, where Lauda edged out Prost, the team reigned supreme in the Teams’ standings, marking their comeback to the top.
1. 1988: The Pinnacle of Performance
Drivers: Alain Prost and Ayrton Senna
Races: 16 | Wins: 15 | Podiums: 25 | Points: 199
Unquestionably, the 1988 season stands as McLaren’s crowning achievement. With an extraordinary winning percentage and a legendary car in the MP4/4, Senna and Prost dominated the track, leading the team to an unparalleled success that still resonates in Formula 1 history.
