McLaren team principal Andrea Stella has expressed optimism about the potential for improvements following the shakedown of their 2026 Formula 1 car in Barcelona. Both Lando Norris and teammate Oscar Piastri participated in the testing at the Montmelo circuit, aiming to get an early handle on the new vehicle under the updated regulations for the upcoming season.
Despite facing challenges during the initial days of testing—particularly with Piastri experiencing a fuel system problem that limited his track time—McLaren ended the shakedown on a positive note. However, the team’s total mileage of 291 laps placed them seventh out of ten teams present, ahead of Aston Martin, but behind others like Audi and Cadillac. Williams notably missed the event entirely. Piastri noted the car’s increased agility, especially due to the newly mandated smaller front wings, calling it a beneficial evolution under the 2026 F1 rules.
Andrea Stella Highlights Opportunities to Maximize New Engine and Aerodynamics Features
Stella emphasized that McLaren still needs to deepen its understanding of the new power unit developed by Mercedes to comply with 2026 F1 regulations. Changes include a shift in electrical power contribution from a 20/80 split to nearly equal halves, the removal of the MGU-H, and the introduction of mandatory sustainable fuels.
The updated rules also allow teams to use movable front and rear wings that switch between a low-drag setting for straights and a high-downforce setup for corners, providing a fresh aerodynamic challenge. Stella remarked,
“One of the areas where there’s a lot of room for improvement is the exploitation of the new power unit and all the options available to the driver,”
adding,
“There’s also great potential to be exploited in the management of the variable aerodynamic configuration, referring to the alternation between corner mode and straight mode.”
These factors highlight McLaren’s focus going forward on unlocking performance through advanced power unit management and active aero usage.
Expectations Place McLaren Near the Front of the 2026 Grid Early Season
Though the Barcelona event was not an official test due to concerns over potential reliability issues, the initial running has started to outline a competitive hierarchy for the 2026 season. Industry observers foresee McLaren emerging as a primary challenger to Mercedes, potentially distancing themselves from Ferrari and Red Bull as races progress.
The enthusiasm stems in part from Mercedes’ strong reputation for engine development, which many in F1 consider likely to offer best-in-class power units for the upcoming campaign. The Bahrain International Circuit will host the first official tests on February 11-13 and 18-20, which should provide clearer insights ahead of the 2026 season opener in Australia from March 6-8. McLaren’s strong hold on the Australian Grand Prix was demonstrated last year when Norris secured victory, setting the tone for a season that ultimately yielded both drivers’ and constructors’ championships.
