McLaren have announced that they will introduce further upgrades for the upcoming Azerbaijan Grand Prix, and they are forecasting a tightly contested four‑way fight for the win against Mercedes, Ferrari and Red Bull. After a winless start to the season – the first ten races passed without a victory for the defending world champions – the team appears to have found its stride. Lando Norris has secured three pole positions in the last four events and was only denied a third win when a virtual safety car intervened at the previous round in Madrid, cutting his rhythm at a crucial moment. The resurgence can be traced to McLaren's relentless development programme.
The MCL40 has received a steady stream of aerodynamic and mechanical updates throughout the year, and these incremental improvements have collectively lifted the car back into the mix for podiums and, potentially, race wins. In their official preview for the Baku weekend – a race that this year takes place on a Saturday rather than the traditional Sunday – the team confirmed that new components will be on the grid and that the distinctive rotating "H‑Wing" – first seen at Monza – will be reinstated 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 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 championship aspirations are slim – with Kimi Antonelli leading the Drivers' Championship for Mercedes and the German outfit holding a comfortable lead in the Constructors' standings – the team remains motivated to keep developing the car. "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 set of challenges that could level the playing field. It features the longest straight on the Formula 1 calendar, demanding low drag and high top‑speed efficiency, while also incorporating a series of tight, low‑speed corners that test mechanical grip and braking stability. Marshall believes this mix will produce entertaining on‑track battles 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 critical factor, especially given the length of the main straight and the need to preserve tyre life through the abrasive street surface. "Energy 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," Marshall explained. "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." McLaren expects any of the top four teams – Mercedes, Ferrari, Red Bull and themselves – to have a realistic chance of taking the checkered flag, while the midfield pack is closing 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," Marshall concluded. The race weekend schedule is packed. On Wednesday, September 23, a drivers' press conference will be held at 11 am, followed by a paddock uncut session at 2 pm.
Thursday, September 24, starts early with an F2 practice at 6.55 am, then the first Azerbaijan GP practice session at 9 am (officially beginning at 9.30 am). The day continues with F2 qualifying, a team bosses' press conference, a second practice session at 12.30 pm, and the F1 Show at 2.15 pm.
Friday, September 25, features an F2 sprint, the third practice session at 9.15 am, the F2 feature race, and the crucial qualifying session for the Grand Prix at 1 pm, followed by a post‑qualifying analysis with Ted's Qualifying Notebook at 3 pm. Saturday, September 26, the final day of action, begins with the second F2 feature race at 7.55 am, the Grand Prix start at 10.30 am, and the race itself later in the day, with post‑race reaction and a final notebook segment. All sessions will be streamed live on Sky Sports Main Event, and the race will be broadcast as part of the 2026 Formula 1 season coverage on Sky Sports F1. Viewers can watch via the NOW platform, which offers a contract‑free, cancel‑anytime subscription.
The Azerbaijan Grand Prix marks the start of a triple‑header of races, and the Saturday timing adds an extra layer of excitement for fans and teams alike, as strategies and tyre choices may differ from the usual Sunday format. In summary, McLaren's additional upgrades, the return of the H‑Wing, and the distinctive demands of the Baku circuit set the stage for a highly competitive race.
While the championship battle may be largely decided elsewhere, the team is determined to seize any opportunity for a win, showcase their development progress, and gather valuable data that will inform the design of their 2027 car. The combination of high‑speed straights, tight corners, and the pressure of a four‑way fight promises a thrilling spectacle for the global audience.