McLaren have announced that they will bring a fresh set of upgrades to their MCL40 for the upcoming Azerbaijan Grand Prix in Baku, and they expect the race to turn into a four‑horse showdown involving Mercedes, Ferrari and Red Bull. After a season that began with ten races without a win, the reigning World Constructors' Champions have finally begun to rediscover their winning form.
Lando Norris has secured three pole positions in the last four events, and his only missed opportunity for a third victory came when a virtual safety car was deployed at an inopportune moment during the Spanish Grand Prix in Madrid. The team’s recent performance underscores the importance of continuous development.
Since the start of the year, McLaren have introduced a steady stream of parts to the MCL40, each iteration contributing to a noticeable uplift in pace and competitiveness. In their official preview for the Baku weekend, the outfit confirmed that a number of new aerodynamic components will be fitted, and that the distinctive rotating "H‑Wing" – first seen in Monza – will return to the car after being omitted in Madrid.
"As part of the team's continued journey throughout the 2026 season, the team will bring to Baku a set of upgrades aimed to improve the aerodynamic performance of the MCL40," the team statement read. "Additionally the H‑Wing, that debuted in Monza, will be back in action on a track where the drag reduction can be a factor. As has been the approach in previous races this season, all new parts will be evaluated throughout practice before the team makes final decisions regarding the MCL40's Qualifying and Grand Prix setup for the weekend." Chief Technical Officer and Chief Designer Rob Marshall explained that, even though McLaren's chances of clinching the championship have become slim – with Kimi Antonelli leading the Drivers' Championship and his Mercedes squad comfortably ahead in the constructors' tally – the team remains eager to push the car forward. "With regulatory continuity into next season and the competition at the front so close, our motivation to keep developing the car remains high," Marshall said.
"We must balance that with work on next year's car, but our immediate focus is on delivering more performance and fighting for more victories in 2026, while carrying forward everything we learn." The Baku City Circuit presents a unique blend of challenges that should test the MCL40's versatility. It features the longest straight on the Formula 1 calendar, where top speed and low drag are critical, as well as a series of tight, low‑speed corners that demand strong mechanical grip and precise handling.
Marshall believes this mix will generate an entertaining contest among the leading teams. "Baku will provide another valuable test of the MCL40 across a very different range of characteristics," he added. Energy management will be a key factor, especially given the length of the main straight and the need to deploy the ERS efficiently for overtaking and defending. Tire and brake temperatures will also be under scrutiny, as cars will arrive at Turn 1 after a long, high‑speed run with those components relatively cold.
"Operationally, there is very little margin for error on a tight street circuit. A small mistake can lead to significant repairs, lost track time and resources being diverted away from performance, so confidence, precision and disciplined execution will be essential throughout the weekend," Marshall warned. McLaren expect any of the four top teams – Mercedes, Ferrari, Red Bull and themselves – to be capable of taking the checkered flag in Baku, while the rest of the field continues to close the gap.
"We expect any of the top four teams to be capable of winning in Baku, with the chasing pack also getting closer, and we hope to be firmly in the fight at the front," the team concluded. The weekend schedule is packed with supporting events.
On Wednesday, September 23, a drivers' press conference will kick off the media programme at 11 am, followed by a paddock uncut session at 2 pm. Thursday, September 24, begins with an early‑morning F2 practice at 6.55 am, then the Azerbaijan GP practice sessions start at 9.30 am and 1 pm respectively, interspersed with F2 qualifying, the team bosses' press conference and the F1 Show. Friday, September 25, sees the F2 sprint race, a third practice session for the Grand Prix, the F2 feature race, and finally the crucial qualifying session for the Azerbaijan GP at 1 pm, after which the team’s own "Ted's Qualifying Notebook" will be released.
Saturday, September 26, hosts the second F2 feature race at 7.55 am, followed by the main event – the Azerbaijan Grand Prix – which will start at 10.30 am, a departure from the usual Sunday slot. The race will be followed by a post‑race reaction segment and another edition of Ted's Notebook at 3 pm.
All sessions will also be streamed live on Sky Sports Main Event for viewers in the UK. The decision to run the Grand Prix on a Saturday adds an extra layer of excitement to the 2026 Formula 1 calendar, as it creates a triple‑header of races across the week, with Baku positioned as the centerpiece. Fans can watch the action live via Sky Sports F1 or stream it through NOW, which offers a contract‑free, cancel‑anytime subscription. In summary, McLaren are arriving in Baku with a suite of aerodynamic upgrades, the re‑introduction of the H‑Wing, and a clear intention to fight for victory despite the odds stacked against them in the championship standings.
Their development philosophy, combined with the demanding nature of the Baku circuit, sets the stage for a thrilling contest where strategy, precision and a bit of luck could see the British team back on the top step of the podium.