At this weekend’s Brazil GP, McLaren will fit its MCL40 with a fresh front‑wing concept that hints at the design for the 2027 challenger.
After a surge in Hungary, where an extensive MCL40 upgrade helped Lando Norris win, the team kept the momentum in Zandvoort but has since slipped despite further packages in Baku and Austin.
Across the last four qualifying sessions the car averaged fourth fastest, trailing pole by 0.511 s and the third‑quickest by 0.236 s, yet development toward 2027 remains relentless.
“We’re adding updates to the front wing, rear wing and floor as part of our regular development cycle,” explained Peter Prodromou, chief technical officer for aerodynamics. “The goal is to claw back ground, lift performance for the remaining races and build momentum into next year.
“Sao Paulo has historically suited us and mirrors many circuits, so we’re hopeful these parts will push us another step forward.
Peter Prodromou, McLaren Technical Director – Aerodynamics
“The season’s not over; these upgrades aim to boost the car now and aid our fight for third in the standings. While lessons will feed next year’s build, we expect the new front‑wing concept to carry over to the 2027 launch specification. For my money, this could reshape their 2027 plan.
McLaren trails third‑placed Red Bull by 17 points, having amassed only 59 points versus the rival’s 152 over the past five rounds.
The Mexican Grand Prix offered a spark, with Norris finishing fifth just 12 seconds behind race winner Max Verstappen, though the champion remained cautious about upcoming races.
“Looking at Baku and similar tracks, we’ll still be battling for pace,” he said Sunday evening. “We need substantial gains on specific circuits and areas.
“Today was solid, but I’m not convinced a return to our weaker tracks will instantly flip the script. It suited us here, yet I won’t rely on hope or luck alone.
“We know the gaps, it just takes time, and we aim for a stronger showing in Brazil.
We want your opinion!
What upgrades would you like to see on our 2027 car?
Take our 5 minute survey.
– The Team