McLaren to unveil 2026 F1 livery in Bahrain on February 9

McLaren will reveal its 2026 Formula 1 car livery at a special event in Bahrain on Monday, February 9, officially kicking off its title defense campaign with the prestigious number 1 on its cars. The launch precedes the sole pre-season test at the same Bahrain International Circuit, setting the stage for Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri's first runs in the new MCL.

Why it matters:

This launch marks McLaren's first season running the number 1 as the reigning Constructors' and Drivers' champions, a significant milestone for the Woking-based team. The event provides the first official look at the car they hope will continue their competitive form under the new 2026 technical regulations, which promise significant aerodynamic and power unit changes.

The details:

• Event Timing: The launch is scheduled for 18:00 local time in Bahrain (15:00 GMT) on February 9, just two days before pre-season testing begins.
• How to Watch: The reveal will be streamed live on McLaren's official YouTube channel.
• Key Attendees: The event will feature drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, alongside McLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown and Team Principal Andrea Stella.
• Pre-Season Preparation: The team recently completed a three-day shakedown at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya from January 26-30, part of a collective test with all teams except Williams.

What's next:

The focus immediately shifts to performance and reliability. Driver feedback from the Barcelona shakedown indicates a period of adaptation.

• Norris noted the 2026 car "requires a new way of thinking and driving," emphasizing the team's focus on understanding the new package. He called running with the number 1 a "special moment."
• Piastri reported a "much smoother" final day of testing in Barcelona, stating the priority was to "understand the car and improve it." He highlighted ongoing work with engine partner HPP (Mercedes) to extract performance from the new power unit and adapting to a car carrying more downforce.
• The official pre-season test in Bahrain from February 11-13 and 18-20 will be the first true indicator of McLaren's—and its rivals'—pace heading into the opening race.