McLaren has outlined its strategy to regain competitive form following a recent downturn in the 2026 Formula 1 season. Team Principal Andrea Stella confirmed that significant car upgrades are scheduled for the upcoming Brazilian and Las Vegas Grands Prix. This follows a period where the team’s performance has regressed from race-winning pace.
The Woking-based squad currently holds fourth position in the Constructors’ Championship with 355 points, level with Red Bull. This places them behind both Ferrari and Mercedes. Lando Norris, the reigning 2025 World Drivers’ Champion, is sixth in the Drivers’ standings with 211 points.
McLaren has not secured a podium finish in the last four rounds, marking their longest such streak since 2023. At the recent United States Grand Prix, Norris finished fifth, having started eighth, while Oscar Piastri secured seventh place.
Norris described the MCL40 as ‘easily the hardest car I’ve ever driven in my life’ after qualifying in Austin. He also stated that McLaren was ‘just not quick enough’ at the event. Piastri has not reached the podium since the Miami Grand Prix in May.
The MCL40 exhibits weaknesses in slow-speed cornering and straight-line speed. Its setup is described as being on a ‘knife’s edge,’ demanding extremely precise driving inputs from both drivers.
Andrea Stella confirmed minimal upgrades for the MCL40 at the Mexico City Grand Prix this weekend. The next substantial development packages are slated for Brazil and Las Vegas.
These planned upgrades, which have been in production since early September, include modifications to the front geometry, diffuser, and other aerodynamic components. The aim is to improve both performance and driveability.
Stella indicated that the team’s fundamental handling issues cannot be fully resolved until the 2027 car. He also noted that McLaren’s involvement in the 2025 title fight impacted the development momentum for the 2026 car.
The team’s recent slump contrasts with their form around the summer break, where Norris secured victories in Hungary and Zandvoort. He also contended for a third consecutive win in Madrid before a virtual safety car period.
Driver dynamics have also been a factor, with a collision between Norris and Piastri during the Singapore sprint. Team orders were then implemented in Austin, instructing Piastri to yield position to Norris.
Stella explained that the Austin decision was based on Norris’s stronger performance at that specific circuit and the team’s overarching interests. Christian Horner, Red Bull Team Principal, has previously cautioned McLaren about managing two top drivers.
The 2026 season introduced significant regulation changes, including revised power units and new active aerodynamics. The MGU-H was removed, and MGU-K output increased, contributing to new car characteristics.
McLaren remains committed to learning, developing, and extracting maximum performance from the MCL40. The objective is to consistently challenge for podiums and victories in the remaining races.
