McLaren officially unveils papaya livery for 2026 F1 car

McLaren has presented the MCL40, the car it will defend it its double world championships with in the 2026 Formula 1 season

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The McLaren Formula 1 team has officially lifted the covers off its 2026 challenger, the MCL40, as it aims to retain both 2025 world titles in F1's new regulations era.

McLaren drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri had tested the MCL40 at Barcelona's shakedown late last month, draped in a temporary grey and black livery.

Ahead of Bahrain's first official test this week, the Woking-based outfit has now presented its final colour scheme for the 2026 season, continuing its rekindled tradition to lean on papaya orange as its main colour.

McLaren MCL40 livery

McLaren MCL40 livery

The McLaren MCL40, which was unveiled at the Bahrain international Circuit - the home of McLaren's main shareholder, sports a similar looking livery to its two championship-winning predecessors. Meanwhile, Mastercard enjoys an increased presence after upgrading its deal with the squad to a title sponsorship, McLaren's first such deal since the Vodafone days over a decade ago.

Last year, Norris clinched his maiden drivers title at the final race in Abu Dhabi, defeating Red Bull's defending champion Max Verstappen by two points. McLaren wrapped up its second consecutive constructors' crown as early as September's Singapore round.

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Category: General Sports