Formula 1: McLaren presented the cars with which it will defend its titles in 2026
McLaren unveiled its definitive car design for the 2026 Formula 1 season, featuring traditional papaya and black colors, at an event in Bahrain.
McLaren Racing has officially revealed the car design they will use in the 2026 Formula 1 season, showcasing their iconic papaya and black color scheme with more intensity than before. The announcement took place at a special event at the Bahrain International Circuit, where team CEO Zak Brown highlighted the importance of maintaining the brandβs winning tradition. This design marks a return to the colors associated with past championships, reinforcing the team's commitment to excellence and competitive spirit as they prepare for the upcoming season.
The car, referred to as the MCL40, will be driven by Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, following a successful past season. The unveiling follows a period when the team used a completely black temporary livery during pre-season testing in Spain, allowing fans and commentators to speculate on the final look of the car. With this new design, McLaren aims to capture the attention of fans worldwide and assert their place as a top contender in the fierce competition of Formula 1.
As the 2026 season approaches, the teamβs refreshed aesthetics come alongside their aspirations for success, betting on both talented drivers and a new automotive strategy. The statement by Zak Brown underlines the importance of both tradition and innovation in McLaren's approach, as they not only defend their titles but also seek to return to their championship-winning ways in the highly competitive world of Formula 1.