McLaren has revealed a striking bronze statue of two-time Formula 1 world champion Mika Hakkinen, marking a major highlight in the team’s 1000th Grand Prix celebrations at its Woking headquarters. The tribute cements the Finn’s status as one of the most iconic drivers in McLaren’s history.
Key Highlights:
- McLaren unveils bronze Mika Hakkinen statue at its Woking headquarters as part of the team’s 1000th Formula 1 Grand Prix celebrations.
- The artwork by Paul Oz immortalises Hakkinen’s 1998 Suzuka title win, capturing his iconic first World Championship celebration.
- Hakkinen attends the unveiling alongside Zak Brown, Andrea Stella, Lando Norris, and Oscar Piastri.
- Statue joins McLaren legends display, standing with icons like Ayrton Senna, Alain Prost, James Hunt, Niki Lauda, and Bruce McLaren on the team’s Boulevard.
Suzuka Glory Immortalised in Bronze
Crafted by renowned motorsport artist Paul Oz, the sculpture captures Hakkinen’s unforgettable celebration at Suzuka in 1998, where he secured his maiden world championship. The statue now sits prominently on McLaren’s Boulevard, positioned alongside his legendary MP4/13 and other team greats including Ayrton Senna, Alain Prost, and James Hunt.
Hakkinen attended the unveiling alongside Zak Brown, Andrea Stella, Lando Norris, and Oscar Piastri, reflecting on the emotional significance of the moment and the pressure-filled journey to his first title.
Hakkinen Reflects on His Championship Moment
“Wow… Good memories! This is me in Suzuka, when I won my first World Championship, the beginning of something very special,” Hakkinen said, revisiting the defining moment of his career.
He added that the pressure of chasing a world title made the achievement even more meaningful. “When you spend your whole life racing, there is pressure on you to win a World Championship… that day in Suzuka I just remember thinking, ‘okay, let’s do this’.”
McLaren Celebrates 1000-Grand Prix Legacy
The statue unveiling forms part of McLaren’s wider celebration of reaching 1000 Formula 1 Grands Prix. CEO Zak Brown highlighted the team’s historic standing in the sport, noting its status as one of the most successful and longest-serving teams on the grid.
Team principal Andrea Stella also paid tribute to McLaren’s legacy, stressing the responsibility of continuing the winning tradition established by Bruce McLaren and the champions who followed, while pushing the team forward into its modern era.
