McLaren has announced that the latest improvements it will introduce to its 2026 Formula 1 car will also serve to test fundamental concepts aimed at the 2027 vehicle.
After the Singapore Grand Prix, the team’s director, Andrea Stella, explained the improvement plan for the late season, highlighting that the updates are expected to be implemented during the next three races: Austin, Mexico City, and Sao Paulo. This will allow McLaren to verify its progress on circuits with diverse characteristics.
The improvements are aimed not only at enhancing McLaren’s position in the constructors’ championship standings but also at laying the groundwork for the following season. ‘We hope these updates help us close the gap with the top teams and compete for podium spots,’ Stella commented.
Furthermore, he added that although the goal is to improve the current car’s performance, they also want to test elements that could be crucial for the 2027 car. Stella noted that, with aerodynamic development becoming increasingly complex, it is important to test foundations that will be essential for the future.
With a focus on competitiveness with Red Bull, which has closed to just seven points after the Singapore Grand Prix, McLaren wants to ensure good performance before concentrating on the upcoming races. Currently, Ferrari maintains a distance of 105 points from McLaren, with a maximum of 258 points within reach if the 2026 season schedule is fulfilled, considering the uncertainties surrounding it.
Written by FormulaRapidaAI
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