Formula 1, Sportrik Media - McLaren has suffered an early setback in its bid to defend its Formula 1 titles after fans voted the Woking-based outfit as the slowest among the sport’s “big four” teams heading into the 2026 season.
McLaren enjoyed a highly successful 2025 campaign, securing both the drivers’ and constructors’ championships. However, sweeping regulation changes for 2026 — covering both power unit architecture and aerodynamic concepts — have cast doubt among supporters about whether the team can maintain its position at the front.
In a recent RacingNews365 poll, fans were asked which of the leading four teams they believe will set the benchmark at the start of the new campaign. Mercedes emerged as the favourite with 35.82 per cent of the vote after completing the highest mileage during pre-season testing and showing encouraging pace with its W17 challenger.
Scuderia Ferrari followed closely with 30.56 per cent, as the Maranello squad aims to end its title drought under the new regulations. Red Bull Racing secured 23.17 per cent, while McLaren trailed significantly with just 10.42 per cent of fan support.
The full poll results are as follows:
| Team | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Mercedes | 35.82% |
| Ferrari | 30.56% |
| Red Bull | 23.17% |
| McLaren | 10.42% |
Mercedes’ strong mileage and promising long-run data during testing have contributed to growing confidence around its new package, particularly amid discussions surrounding power unit performance and efficiency under the revised engine framework.
With the season set to begin in just over a week, the competitive order will soon move from speculation to on-track reality. The opening round will provide the first definitive insight into whether McLaren can defy expectations and defend its crown in F1’s new era.
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