McLaren won't stop 2026 F1 car development despite 2027 focus

McLaren is showing signs of the form that made it so successful over the past two years. After a difficult start to the 2026 Formula 1 season, the Woking-based squad is finally finding its rhythm.

The latest upgrade package in Hungary, featuring a revised floor and the latest front wing iteration, was another significant step forward after updates in Miami and Montreal. Lando Norris claimed his and the team's first grand prix win of the campaign, proof that the MCL68 is becoming more competitive.

Although race-winning form is yet to be confirmed on different circuits and conditions, this resurgence may have come too late to defend either championship. McLaren still trails leader Mercedes by 159 points, with Norris fifth in the drivers' standings and Oscar Piastri seventh.

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Neil Houldey, McLaren's technical director for engineering, explained the slow start was due to the intense title fight with Max Verstappen last year and a course correction during 2026 development. "We were developing our car right until the end of the year whilst working on 2026. So we were a little bit on the back foot at the start," he said.

Unlike some rivals who switched focus early, McLaren plans to keep bringing upgrades until late in the season. Houldey stressed that lessons from 2026 development will carry over to the 2027 car, despite significant design changes including a longer wheelbase and revised suspension layout.

"We're certainly not stopping development on '26," Houldey confirmed. "Everything we're learning this year is very much relevant for next year. The best way to understand performance is by putting it on the track and testing it properly."

McLaren is also the third team to trial the upside-down rear wing first seen on the 2026 Ferrari. Houldey admitted being a little "disappointed" to miss that opportunity, but noted the regulations offer more freedom than initially assumed.