McLaren have announced that they will roll out further upgrades for the upcoming Azerbaijan Grand Prix, and they expect the race in Baku to evolve into a four‑horse showdown involving Mercedes, Ferrari and Red Bull. After a winless start to the season – the first ten rounds passed without a victory for the reigning world champions – the team appears to be finding its rhythm again. Lando Norris has secured three pole positions in the last four events, and his only missed win came when a virtual safety car was deployed at an inopportune moment during the previous race in Madrid, depriving him of a potential triumph.
The British outfit has once more demonstrated a strong capacity for development, continuously introducing new components to the MCL40. These incremental upgrades have been pivotal in lifting the car back into the mix for podium finishes. In their official preview for the Baku weekend – which, unusually, will be held on a Saturday rather than the traditional Sunday – McLaren confirmed that fresh parts will be fitted and that the rotating "H‑Wing" element, omitted in Madrid, will return to the chassis.
The team’s statement highlighted that the upgrades are designed to boost the aerodynamic efficiency of the MCL40, and that the re‑introduction of the H‑Wing could prove beneficial on a circuit where drag reduction plays a significant role. "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 said. "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 elaborated on the strategic rationale behind persisting with development despite the fact that McLaren's championship hopes have become marginal.
Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli currently dominates the Drivers' Championship, and his team sits comfortably at the top of the Constructors' standings, leaving McLaren with a slim chance of challenging for the title. Nevertheless, Marshall emphasized that the continuity of regulations into the next season, coupled with the narrow margins separating the front‑running squads, keeps the motivation to improve the car high. "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 street circuit presents a unique blend of characteristics that will test the MCL40 in new ways.
It features the longest straight on the Formula 1 calendar, demanding low drag and high top‑speed performance, while also incorporating a series of tight, low‑speed corners that require strong mechanical grip and precise handling. Marshall believes this mix will generate an entertaining battle among the top teams. "Baku will provide another valuable test of the MCL40 across a very different range of characteristics," he added.
"Energy management and deployment will be particularly important, as will tyre and brake management with the cars arriving at Turn 1 after the long straight with these areas 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." He concluded that any of the four leading teams – McLaren, Mercedes, Ferrari and Red Bull – could claim victory in Baku, and that the midfield pack is narrowing the gap, increasing the overall competitiveness of the event. "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," Marshall said.
The weekend schedule is packed with supporting series and media events. On Wednesday, September 23, the drivers' press conference will start at 11 am, followed by a paddock uncut session at 2 pm.
Thursday, September 24, includes early‑morning Formula 2 practice at 6.55 am, the first F1 practice session at 9 am, and a series of qualifying and press events throughout the day. Friday, September 25, sees a Formula 2 sprint, the third F1 practice, and the crucial qualifying session for the Grand Prix at 1 pm. Saturday, September 26, hosts the final Formula 2 race and the main Grand Prix start at 10.30 am, with post‑race analysis and commentary scheduled for the afternoon.
All sessions will be broadcast live on Sky Sports Main Event, and the race itself will be streamed via NOW, offering a no‑contract, cancel‑anytime option for viewers. The shift to a Saturday race adds an extra layer of excitement to the 2026 Formula 1 calendar, as the Azerbaijan Grand Prix kicks off a triple‑header of events that promise high‑octane action for fans worldwide.
In summary, McLaren’s decision to introduce further aerodynamic upgrades and re‑install the H‑Wing underscores their commitment to remain competitive in a season where the championship battle is increasingly tight. The unique demands of the Baku circuit will test the team’s development work, tyre and brake strategies, and overall racecraft. With four top teams all capable of taking the top step of the podium, spectators can look forward to a thrilling contest where precision, reliability and strategic acumen will decide who emerges victorious.