McLaren have announced that they will introduce another batch of upgrades for the upcoming Azerbaijan Grand Prix, and they expect the race to evolve into a four‑horse showdown involving Mercedes, Ferrari, Red Bull and their own team. After a winless start to the season – the first ten races passed without a victory for the defending world champions – the British outfit appears to be finding its stride again. Lando Norris has secured pole position in three of the last four events, and his only missed chance at a third win came when a virtual safety car period in Madrid disrupted his race pace at a crucial moment.
The team’s relentless development programme has been a key factor in this resurgence. Continuous refinements to the MCL40 have steadily lifted its performance, allowing McLaren to re‑enter the mix of potential race winners. In their official preview for the Baku weekend – which, unlike most Grand Prix, will be held on a Saturday rather than the traditional Sunday – the squad confirmed that new aerodynamic components will be fitted, and that the rotating "H‑Wing" – a device first seen in Monza – will make a return after being omitted from the Madrid package.
"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, despite their championship hopes having dwindled – Kimi Antonelli and Mercedes dominate the drivers' standings and sit comfortably at the top of the constructors' table – McLaren remain 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 test for any F1 machine. It combines the longest straight on the calendar, where top speed and low drag are paramount, with a series of tight, low‑speed corners that demand strong mechanical grip and precise handling.
Marshall believes these contrasting demands will produce an "entertaining competition" 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 decisive factor, especially given the need to deploy the hybrid power unit efficiently after the long straight that feeds into a cold set of brakes and tyres at Turn 1. "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," 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." When asked about the realistic chances of a McLaren win, the team was cautiously 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," Marshall said. The event schedule is packed, beginning with a drivers' press conference on Wednesday, September 23, at 11 am, followed by a paddock uncut session at 2 pm. Thursday sees a full programme of F2 practice, the first F1 practice session at 9:30 am, and a team bosses' press conference at noon, before the second practice session kicks off at 1 pm. Friday's agenda includes the F2 sprint, the third F1 practice, the F2 feature race, and the crucial qualifying session for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, slated for 1 pm.
Finally, Saturday will host the F2 feature race, the Grand Prix itself at midday, and post‑race analysis including Ted's qualifying notebook. All sessions will be broadcast live on Sky Sports Main Event, and the race will be streamed via NOW with Sky Sports F1 – a subscription that can be cancelled at any time. The decision to run the Grand Prix on a Saturday adds an extra layer of excitement to the weekend, creating a triple‑header of races that will keep fans engaged throughout the day.
In summary, McLaren are entering Baku with fresh aerodynamic upgrades, the re‑introduction of the H‑Wing, and a clear intention to challenge the traditional powerhouses. While the championship battle may already be leaning heavily towards Mercedes and their lead driver, the unpredictable nature of street circuits like Baku means that any of the top four teams – McLaren included – could seize the opportunity to claim a victory and gain valuable momentum as the season progresses toward its latter stages.