McLaren unveils 2026 F1 livery in Bahrain launch

McLaren will reveal its 2026 Formula 1 livery and team identity in a live launch from Bahrain on Monday, officially kicking off its campaign to defend the constructors' championship for a third consecutive season. The team, with drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri returning for a fourth year, faces the new challenge of F1's latest power unit regulations while maintaining its recent dominant form.

Why it matters:

As the reigning constructors' champion, McLaren's launch sets the visual and strategic tone for its title defense in a season of significant technical change. The team's approach to the new regulations and its decision to stick with a proven driver lineup are critical factors in its bid to extend its championship streak against revitalized rivals.

The details:

• The live launch is scheduled for 3pm GMT (4pm CET) in Bahrain, following a recent five-day official shakedown at the same circuit where the new MCL40 ran in a black test livery.
• Lando Norris will also begin his defense of the drivers' world championship, adding another layer of ambition to the team's 2026 objectives.
• McLaren remains a Mercedes customer team under the new regulations but has publicly adopted a patient upgrade strategy, opting to monitor early-season trends rather than introduce major updates immediately.
• This contrasts with several rival teams who are planning aggressive early development phases for their new cars.

What's next:

The livery unveiling marks the final formal team launch before pre-season testing intensifies, shifting focus entirely to on-track performance. All eyes will be on whether McLaren's measured development philosophy and continuity in its driver pairing provide the stable foundation needed to overcome the inherent uncertainty of a major regulatory shift and maintain its position at the front of the grid.