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 themselves. After a winless start to the season – ten races without a victory – the reigning champions have begun to rediscover form.
Lando Norris has secured three pole positions in the last four events, and his only missed win in Madrid was caused by an ill‑timed virtual safety car that erased his advantage just before the finish. The team’s development programme has once again proven its worth.
Continuous improvements to the MCL40 have played a pivotal role in lifting McLaren back into the mix for race wins. In their official preview for the Baku weekend – which this year is scheduled for Saturday rather than the traditional Sunday – the squad confirmed that new aerodynamic components will be fitted, and that the rotating "H‑Wing" – first seen at Monza – will return after being omitted in the Spanish round.
"As part of our ongoing evolution throughout the 2026 campaign, we will bring to Baku a set of upgrades designed to boost the aerodynamic efficiency of the MCL40," the team statement read. "In addition, the H‑Wing, which debuted in Monza, will be reinstated on a circuit where drag reduction can be decisive. As with previous outings, all fresh parts will be tested during practice before we lock in the qualifying and race setups for the weekend." Chief Technical Officer and Chief Designer Rob Marshall explained that, despite their championship hopes being slim – Kimi Antonelli leads the Drivers' Championship and his Mercedes outfit enjoys a comfortable margin in the Constructors' standings – McLaren remain eager to push the car forward. "With regulatory continuity into next year and the front‑running teams so closely matched, our motivation to keep developing the car stays high," Marshall said.
"We have to juggle that with work on the 2027 car, but our immediate priority is to extract more performance and chase further victories in 2026, while carrying forward everything we learn." The Baku street circuit presents a unique blend of challenges that should test the MCL40’s versatility. It boasts the longest straight on the Formula 1 calendar, demanding low drag, while also featuring a series of tight, low‑speed corners that require high downforce and mechanical grip.
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 will be crucial on the long straight, where drivers must balance full‑throttle deployment with the need to preserve tyre life for the subsequent slow sections. Brake temperatures will also be a concern, as the cars arrive at Turn 1 after a high‑speed run with relatively cold brakes and tyres.
"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," 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." The added aerodynamic parts and the reinstated H‑Wing are intended to give the MCL40 a better balance between low drag for the straight and sufficient downforce for the twisty sections, potentially allowing Norris and his teammate to stay in contention throughout the race.
The weekend schedule is packed. On Wednesday, September 23, the drivers' press conference will take place at 11 am, followed by a paddock uncut session at 2 pm. Thursday, September 24, begins with an early‑morning F2 practice at 6.55 am, then the Azerbaijan GP practice session starts at 9.30 am, followed by F2 qualifying, the team bosses' press conference and a second practice session. Friday, September 25, features an F2 sprint, a third practice session for the Grand Prix, the F2 feature race, and the crucial qualifying session for the Azerbaijan GP, slated for 1 pm.
Saturday, September 26, will host the second F2 feature race, the Grand Prix build‑up, the race itself at midday, and post‑race analysis including Ted’s Qualifying Notebook. All sessions will be streamed live on Sky Sports Main Event, and the race will be broadcast on Sky Sports F1. Viewers can also watch via the NOW streaming service, which offers a contract‑free, cancel‑anytime option. In summary, McLaren are entering Baku with a clear development plan, a revived aerodynamic package, and a realistic belief that they can challenge for the win despite the dominance of Mercedes, Ferrari and Red Bull.
Their focus on precision, energy management, and rapid adaptation to the unique demands of the Baku circuit could make the race one of the most thrilling of the 2026 season.