McLaren have announced that they will introduce a fresh batch of upgrades for the upcoming Azerbaijan Grand Prix, and they expect the race in Baku to turn into a four‑horse showdown involving Mercedes, Ferrari, Red Bull and their own team. After a season that began with a ten‑race winless streak, the reigning Constructors’ Champions have started to find their rhythm. Lando Norris has secured three pole positions in the last four events, and his only missed win so far was the result of an ill‑timed virtual safety car in Madrid, which robbed him of a potential victory. The team’s ability to develop the MCL40 on a weekly basis has been a key factor in their resurgence.
Continuous aerodynamic and mechanical updates have steadily lifted the car’s performance, bringing McLaren back into the mix for podiums and wins. In their official preview for the Baku weekend – a race that this year will be held on a Saturday rather than the traditional Sunday – the outfit confirmed that several new components will be fitted, and that the distinctive rotating "H‑Wing" that debuted in Monza will make a return after being omitted in Madrid. "As part of our ongoing development programme throughout the 2026 season, we will bring to Baku a package of upgrades designed to boost the aerodynamic efficiency of the MCL40," the team statement read. "In addition, the H‑Wing, first seen at Monza, will be re‑installed on a circuit where drag reduction can be decisive.
As with previous rounds, all new parts will be tested during practice before we lock in the final qualifying and race set‑up." Chief Technical Officer and Chief Designer Rob Marshall explained that, despite their championship hopes being slim – Kimi Antonelli and Mercedes dominate the Drivers’ and Constructors’ standings – McLaren remain committed to pushing the car forward. "With the regulatory framework remaining stable into next year and the front‑running teams so closely matched, our motivation to keep developing is very high," Marshall said.
"We have to balance this work with the development of next year’s car, but our immediate focus is to extract as much performance as possible and fight for more wins in 2026, while preserving everything we learn for the future." The Baku street circuit presents a unique set of challenges that should test the MCL40’s versatility. It boasts the longest straight on the Formula 1 calendar, demanding low drag for top speed, while also featuring a series of tight, low‑speed corners that require high downforce and mechanical grip. Marshall believes this mix will produce an entertaining battle among the leading teams. "Baku will be another valuable test of the MCL40 across a very different range of characteristics," he added.
Energy management will be critical, especially given the long straight that leads into a cold‑run Turn 1. Drivers will need to balance fuel flow, ERS deployment and tyre temperatures carefully.
Brake wear is also a concern, as the heavy braking zones after the high‑speed sections can quickly overheat the system if not managed properly. "Operationally there is very little margin for error on a tight street circuit. A small mistake can lead to significant repairs, loss of track time and resources being diverted away from performance, so confidence, precision and disciplined execution will be essential throughout the weekend," Marshall warned. The team’s outlook is optimistic: "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." This confidence reflects the cumulative effect of the upgrades introduced over the past few months, which have narrowed the gap to the front‑runners and given McLaren a realistic shot at the podium.
The race weekend schedule is packed. On Wednesday, September 23, the drivers’ press conference will take place at 11:00 am, followed by a paddock uncut session at 2:00 pm.
Thursday, September 24, sees an early F2 practice at 6:55 am, then the Azerbaijan GP practice one at 9:30 am, F2 qualifying at 10:55 am, and the team bosses’ press conference at noon. Practice two begins at 1:00 pm, with the F1 Show at 2:15 pm.
Friday, September 25, starts with the F2 sprint at 5:10 am, followed by practice three for the Grand Prix at 9:30 am. The F2 feature race runs at 11:10 am, then the build‑up to qualifying at 12:30 pm, and the Azerbaijan GP qualifying session itself at 1:00 pm, accompanied by Ted’s Qualifying Notebook at 3:00 pm.
Saturday, September 26, features the second F2 feature race at 7:55 am, the Grand Prix start at 10:30 am, and the race itself at midday. Post‑race coverage includes a reaction segment at 2:00 pm and Ted’s Notebook at 3:00 pm. All sessions will also be streamed live on Sky Sports Main Event. The 2026 Formula 1 calendar continues to be broadcast live on Sky Sports F1, with the Azerbaijan Grand Prix kicking off a triple‑header of races.
This week’s Baku event will be shown on a Saturday at midday, and fans can stream the action via NOW – no contract required, cancel anytime. The combination of new aerodynamic parts, the reinstated H‑Wing, and the demanding nature of the Baku circuit sets the stage for a thrilling contest where McLaren hopes to turn their recent development surge into a race win.