McLaren & Dell Technologies – Powering the Team

The Challenge

McLaren and Dell Technologies needed to capture the critical behind-the-scenes role of IT infrastructure in Formula 1 racing. The documentary required intimate access to McLaren’s high-tech operations during a TPC (Testing of Previous Cars) event, showcasing how Dell’s technology keeps the team connected from trackside to factory.

Key Requirements:

• Capture technical operations without disrupting critical F1 systems
• Document complex IT processes in an accessible way
• Coordinate with McLaren’s strict security and operational protocols
• Deliver broadcast-quality content for international distribution
• Work within the confined space of an F1 garage environment

How We Set Up the Team

Crew we built

• 1 producer – English-speaking, knows how to work with F1-level security protocols
• Gaffer and lighting crew – used to working in tight technical spaces where you can’t touch anything
• Sound engineer – has to capture clear dialogue when there’s constant garage noise and radio chatter
• Focus puller – precision work for those close-up technical shots
• Licensed drone pilot – for Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya aerials
• 2 van drivers doubling as runners – logistics and gear coordination

Technical kit we provided

• Nanlite lighting package with Aperture LED 600x – flicker-free for the cameras, cool enough for confined spaces
• Teradek wireless transmission – so directors and clients can monitor in real-time without crowding the operators
• Multiple client monitors – stakeholder approval without getting in the way
• Specialized audio package – mics that work in high-noise garage environments
• Full drone setup – establishing shots of the circuit

What Made This Work

Pre-production: We handled all the coordination – security clearances, equipment approval for F1 paddock access, scheduling around McLaren’s technical sessions

Location challenges: F1 garages are cramped. We had to light properly without interfering with their IT tower (the “beating heart” of their operation, as Matt called it). Our sound team captured clear dialogue despite constant garage noise.

The story: Followed Matt through his full day – from remotely starting servers at the hotel, through connectivity checks, telemetry monitoring, to final pack-down. Dell’s VxRail servers keep everything from driver radio to data transmission running.

Why This Worked for McLaren & Dell

They needed crews who understood corporate and sports production standards but could work in technical, high-security environments. No learning curve, no protocol mistakes.

Our deep Barcelona knowledge meant we knew the Montmeló circuit, local logistics, and could coordinate everything in English for the international production team.

The result: Clean documentary footage showing Dell’s technology role in F1 operations, ready for McLaren’s global distribution.