McLaren unveils 2026 livery from Bahrain

McLaren has revealed their new livery for the 2026 season in a live event broadcast from the Bahrain International Circuit (host of official tests and the Bahrain Grand Prix). Just two days before the first official pre-season test, the Woking-based outfit showcased a striking design, maintaining the papaya color palette that adorned the 2025 championship-winning MCL39.

Embed from Getty Images

Drivers Lando Norris (current World Champion) and Oscar Piastri spoke alongside Team Principal Andrea Stella and CEO Zak Brown, while Chief Marketing Officer Lou McEwen and Chief Designer Rob Marshall presented the new livery. McLaren continues its tradition of carrying forward a championship-winning livery, combining papaya with anthracite and subtle teal accents. This design also extends to the drivers’ fire suits (flame-resistant racing overalls), with Norris and Piastri wearing fully papaya-fronted suits.

Brown commented: “We’re delighted to present our 2026 challenger’s livery from our second home, Bahrain. The iconic papaya continues on the MCL40, balancing creative direction with aerodynamic considerations (airflow optimization to maximize downforce and efficiency) to create a visually striking competitor. Thanks to our shareholders, partners, and fans for their support; we’re excited to see it on track.”

Stella added: “Revealing the MCL40 livery marks a milestone in the team’s incredible work before the season. 2026 brings a new challenge with F1 regulations, and we go into the season as an independent challenger against five top manufacturers. We’ve learned from the past, but the grid starts from zero and previous achievements count for nothing. Our goal is to hit the ground running, supported by the best combination of team, drivers, Mercedes HPP collaboration (Mercedes power unit supply), partners, and fans.”

The MCL40 made its on-track debut during the recent Barcelona Shakedown (initial test for Mercedes power unit and car behavior) in a temporary black and grey livery. Norris has chosen to race with car number 1 after defeating Piastri and Red Bull’s Max Verstappen in 2025, though defending the title faces the added challenge of 2026 regulation changes.

The MCL40’s new livery will appear on track for the first time from February 11-13, when all 11 teams gather data during the first official pre-season test in Bahrain, with a second opportunity from February 18-20.

Norris said: “It’s great to be back in Bahrain to reveal this season’s livery. The design looks amazing, and I’m excited to continue racing in the colors from last year’s success. Thanks to everyone involved in designing and building the car, to the fans, and to our partners. I’m ready for this year and can’t wait to get back on track and keep pushing.”

Piastri added: “The new MCL40 livery looks excellent. It’s great to carry forward the 2025 championship-winning design. We face a big challenge with the new regulations, but I enter the season with positivity, ready to tackle this new era of Formula 1. We learned a lot last year, and I feel stronger than ever. I’m looking forward to seeing what we can achieve this year.”