McLaren Unleashes Second Phase of Major Upgrade at Canadian GP

McLaren has rolled out the second phase of its major MCL40 upgrade package at Formula 1's Canadian Grand Prix, hoping the extensive changes will help it challenge Mercedes at the front. The reigning champion team introduced the first half in Miami and has now completed the overhaul for Montreal.

The updates focus on better airflow conditioning and increased downforce, with visible changes including a completely new front wing, a redesigned halo winglet, and revisions to the engine cover, floor edges, rear suspension, and rear wing endplate.

Why it matters:

• As the defending constructors' champion, McLaren needs sustained performance gains to hold off rivals Mercedes, who have shown strong recent form. These upgrades are critical for maintaining their title bid.
• The MCL40 has already proven competitive, but Montreal's low-grip circuit will test whether the new parts translate into a genuine challenge at a track where Mercedes has historically excelled.

The details:

• Front wing: New flap element profiles and a narrowed footplate area improve front-end airflow.
• Halo winglet: Added to the top of the halo to better direct air around the cockpit and central engine cover.
• Engine cover: Additional cooling exits and louvre options enhance thermal management.
• Floor edges: Tweaked geometry to boost downforce from the underfloor.
• Rear suspension: Fairings revised for improved aerodynamic efficiency.
• Rear wing endplate: Sculpted differently to increase load from the rear wing.

Lando Norris acknowledged the challenge: "Mercedes have always been incredibly strong here. We need to see how the upgrades from Miami translate to a much lower grip track. We're confident, but we don't want to get ahead of ourselves."

What's next:

• Montreal's unique low-grip surface may not fully reveal the upgrade's potential, as Miami's high-grip tarmac suited McLaren's car. The team will evaluate performance through practice and qualifying.
• If the changes deliver as expected, McLaren could close the gap to Mercedes at upcoming races. However, Norris's caution suggests the team is managing expectations until data from the weekend confirms the step forward.