McLaren has confirmed the introduction of additional upgrades for its MCL40 challenger at the upcoming Dutch Grand Prix. This development follows the team’s recent victory at the Hungarian Grand Prix, where Lando Norris secured the first win of the season for the Woking-based squad. The team aims to build on its momentum from Budapest.
The new components for the Zandvoort event are focused on the rear of the car. These include a new rear wing and revised rear brake ducts. These parts are intended to complete the comprehensive development package initially introduced at the Hungaroring.
The Hungarian Grand Prix saw McLaren implement a significant upgrade package, featuring a new floor and several accompanying aerodynamic changes. These updates were crucial in delivering the team’s strongest performance of the 2026 season.
Despite being the reigning Drivers’ and Teams’ Champions from 2025, McLaren experienced a challenging start to the 2026 Formula 1 season. The team initially struggled to adapt to the new technical regulations.
Team Principal Andrea Stella noted that the aerodynamic package introduced in Hungary resulted from a change in development direction. He believes the team can still contend for titles if they maintain their Budapest performance.
McLaren CEO Zak Brown had previously expressed confidence in the team’s ability to return to winning ways. He highlighted the strength of McLaren’s drivers and racing team culture.
Brown also described the Hungarian victory as ‘bittersweet’ due to Oscar Piastri’s retirement from a potential podium position with a gearbox issue. Piastri had led much of the race.
Regarding financial strategy, McLaren has maintained sufficient headroom under the budget cap for continued development. Andrea Stella confirmed the team is in a comfortable position to invest in MCL40 upgrades.
Further bolstering the team’s financial standing, Mastercard became the official naming partner of the Formula 1 team from the 2026 season. The team is now known as the McLaren Mastercard Formula 1 Team.
The upcoming Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort holds significance for McLaren. The team has a strong recent record at the circuit, with Lando Norris winning in 2024 and Oscar Piastri victorious in 2025.
Both Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri are secured on multi-year contracts, providing stability to the driver lineup beyond the current 2026 season. Piastri’s extension was announced in March 2025.
Technical Director Neil Houldey stated that the team has learned considerably in the first part of the season. This understanding is crucial for extracting performance and managing earlier reliability issues.
Houldey acknowledged that other teams will also bring developments to Zandvoort. McLaren’s focus remains on maximizing the car’s potential and executing effectively to compete with leading teams.
