McLaren is set to introduce a package of upgrades for its MCL40 car at the upcoming United States Grand Prix in Austin. The new components are designed to address specific performance and reliability concerns, particularly regarding the braking system.
Team Principal Andrea Stella confirmed that these updates serve a dual purpose. While aiming to improve the car’s current competitiveness, they also function as a testing platform for fundamental concepts intended for the 2027 Formula 1 car.
The aerodynamic development of the current car generation is now mature, making it crucial to validate future design choices on track. Stella indicated that upgrades would be delivered in phases across the next three races.
This phased approach, covering Austin, Mexico City, and Sao Paulo, allows McLaren to evaluate the new parts on circuits with varying characteristics.
Chief Technical Officer Rob Marshall described the initial batch of new parts for Austin as a “modest selection.” These are specifically targeted at enhancing braking reliability and overall performance.
The upgrade package also includes minor changes to the car’s floor, which the team plans to test during the Grand Prix weekend.
McLaren has secured two Grand Prix victories in the 2026 F1 season. However, the team has recently experienced a decline in performance, losing ground to Ferrari and being overtaken by Red Bull on track.
The team currently holds third position in the Constructors’ Championship with 339 points. They are 105 points behind Ferrari.
Red Bull, following consecutive victories for Max Verstappen, is now only seven points adrift of McLaren in the standings.
McLaren’s recent triple-header, encompassing races in Azerbaijan, Malaysia, and Singapore, yielded only 33 points. This performance was described as falling “significantly short of expectations.”
Lando Norris retired from the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, and neither McLaren car finished within the top five at Sepang. A collision between Norris and Oscar Piastri in the Singapore sprint further impacted results.
Marshall expressed belief that the Circuit of the Americas in Austin will be more suitable for the MCL40’s characteristics. The track is known for its physically demanding layout, featuring high-speed corners and kerbs.
Despite the upcoming upgrades, Stella acknowledged that the MCL40’s fundamental handling issues, which necessitate an aggressive driving style, cannot be fully resolved before the 2027 car.
Oscar Piastri has reportedly found the car’s demanding characteristics particularly challenging. The current upgrades are not expected to address this deeper handling concern.
McLaren’s braking system operates at extreme temperatures, between 600 and 800 degrees Celsius. The team employs specialized airflow channels and phase change materials for thermal management.
Previous issues have included pressure within the brake duct causing stalling or reverse flow. Sensors are utilized to monitor outer airflow and ensure proper heat dissipation.
The United States Grand Prix weekend commences on Friday, October 23, with two free practice sessions. Qualifying is scheduled for Saturday, October 24, with the race on Sunday, October 25.
