McLaren have announced that they will introduce a fresh batch of upgrades for the upcoming Azerbaijan Grand Prix, and they expect the race to evolve into a tightly contested four‑horse battle involving Mercedes, Ferrari and Red Bull. After a winless start to the season – the first ten Grands Prix passed without a victory for the reigning Constructors' Champions – the team has begun to find its rhythm. Lando Norris has secured three pole positions in the last four events and was only denied a third win in Madrid when a virtual safety car intervened at an inopportune moment. The resurgence can be largely credited to McLaren's aggressive development programme.
The MCL40 has benefited from a steady stream of aerodynamic and mechanical upgrades, which have collectively lifted the car back into the front‑row mix. 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 team confirmed that new components will be fitted and that the distinctive rotating "H‑Wing" – first seen at Monza – will return 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, despite the championship battle being heavily tilted towards Mercedes – with Kimi Antonelli leading the Drivers' Championship and his team comfortably ahead in the Constructors' standings – McLaren remain motivated 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 set of challenges that suit McLaren's development philosophy. It features the longest straight on the Formula 1 calendar, demanding low drag for top speed, while also incorporating a series of tight, low‑speed corners that test mechanical grip and braking stability.
Marshall believes these contrasting sections will produce 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 critical factor, as the long straight followed by a heavy braking zone into Turn 1 leaves the tyres and brakes relatively cold. "Energy deployment, tyre and brake management will be particularly important," Marshall noted.
"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." Looking ahead, McLaren expect any of the top four manufacturers – Mercedes, Ferrari, Red Bull and themselves – to have a realistic chance of taking the checkered flag. "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 event schedule is packed. On Wednesday, September 23, the drivers' press conference starts at 11 am, followed by a paddock uncut session at 2 pm. Thursday sees early‑morning F2 practice at 6:55 am, the first Azerbaijan GP practice at 9:30 am, and a series of qualifying sessions for both F2 and F1 later in the day, culminating in the team bosses' press conference at noon.
Friday includes the F2 sprint, the third practice session for the Grand Prix, and the crucial qualifying session for the Azerbaijan GP at 1 pm, with additional analysis from Ted's Qualifying Notebook at 3 pm. Saturday, September 26, the final race day, begins with the second F2 feature race, followed by the Grand Prix build‑up, the main race itself at midday, post‑race reactions, and a final notebook segment. All sessions will be broadcast live on Sky Sports Main Event, with the race also available via NOW streaming – a contract‑free option that can be cancelled at any time. The shift to a Saturday race adds an extra layer of excitement for fans, as the Azerbaijan Grand Prix kicks off a triple‑header of events that will keep the 2026 Formula 1 season in the spotlight throughout the week.
In summary, McLaren's new upgrades, the reintroduction of the H‑Wing, and the distinctive demands of the Baku circuit set the stage for a potentially thrilling showdown. While the championship narrative currently favours Mercedes, the British team’s relentless development drive and strategic focus on both immediate performance and future growth suggest they will be a formidable presence on the streets of Baku, ready to challenge for the win and continue their climb up the standings.