McLaren unveils championship-defending MCL40 for 2026 as Norris debuts number 1

McLaren has officially launched the MCL40, the car with which it will defend its 2025 Formula 1 World Championship titles, with Lando Norris showcasing the coveted number 1 on its livery for the first time. The launch marks the beginning of a pivotal season for the Woking-based team as it aims to solidify its position at the top of the sport against a resurgent field of rivals.

Why it matters:

After a historic double championship win in 2025, McLaren enters the 2026 season under unprecedented pressure to prove its success was not a one-off. The transition from challenger to defending champion tests a team's operational resilience, development race pace, and mental fortitude. Furthermore, Norris carrying the number 1—a numeral last seen on a McLaren in Lewis Hamilton's 2009 title defense—symbolizes a complete shift in the team's identity and expectations.

The details:

• The MCL40 is described as an evolution of the dominant 2025 chassis, focusing on refining aerodynamic concepts and addressing minor weaknesses, particularly in low-speed cornering stability.
• Livery & Symbolism: The papaya and blue livery prominently features the number 1 on the engine cover and nose, a visual statement of the team's champion status. Team Principal Andrea Stella emphasized the number represents a "responsibility, not a right."
• Technical Evolution: While full technical details remain guarded, key areas of development include adaptations to the final set of stable regulations before the major 2026 overhaul, with a focus on optimizing the now-mature ground-effect platform.
• Driver Lineup Stability: The confirmed retention of Norris and Oscar Piastri provides crucial continuity, allowing the team to build on the strong intra-team dynamics established during their championship-winning campaign.

What's next:

All eyes will be on pre-season testing to see if the MCL40 has maintained its performance window. The true test begins at the season opener in Melbourne, where McLaren must immediately demonstrate it can handle the target on its back.

• The development race across the season will be critical, as rivals like Ferrari and a revitalized Mercedes are expected to bring aggressive upgrade packages.
• For Norris, the challenge is twofold: defending his drivers' crown and leading the team culture as its benchmark driver, a new role for the Briton following his maiden title.