McLaren Unveils Special Livery for 1000th F1 Grand Prix

McLaren has revealed a special metallic papaya and anthracite livery for its MCL40 to mark its 1000th Formula 1 Grand Prix, a milestone achieved across the Monaco and Barcelona rounds. The team will become only the second after Ferrari to reach this landmark, celebrating with a historic car display and appearances from legendary drivers.

Why it matters:

Reaching 1000 Grands Prix underscores McLaren's enduring presence and success in F1. With 203 wins, 13 drivers' championships, and 10 constructors' titles, the team remains a cornerstone of the sport. The celebration ties its founding roots in Monaco (1966) to its current competitive era under Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri.

The details:

• The MCL40 will sport a metallic papaya and anthracite livery for both the Monaco and Spanish Grands Prix.
• The milestone was originally targeted for Miami, but cancellations of the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian rounds shifted the count. Additionally, McLaren's failure to start both cars in China pushed the 1000th race to Barcelona, making Monaco the 999th.
• Celebrations: On Thursday in Monaco, the original M2B driven by Bruce McLaren will line up alongside the MCL40. Team principal Andrea Stella, CEO Zak Brown, and F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali will join current drivers Norris and Piastri, along with multiple past McLaren Grand Prix winners.
• Special gear: Both drivers will wear commemorative overalls throughout the two weekends.

What's next:

McLaren will officially enter the 1000-race club at the Barcelona circuit, one week after Monaco. The livery and overalls serve as a visual tribute to the team’s rich history while looking ahead to its future ambitions.