McLaren unveil striking MCL40 livery ahead of Bahrain testing

16:21, 09 Feb

Updated: 17:14, 09 Feb

bySamson Ero

The McLaren team has lifted the cover on the livery of the MCL40 car at an event in Bahrain.

The papaya-coloured outfit becomes the 10th team on the grid to reveal its colour scheme, following Cadillac, who earlier showcased its own livery during the Super Bowl show.

The MCL40 reveal comes just two days before the second round of pre-season testing, scheduled for 11–13 February at the Bahrain International Circuit.

Photo: McLaren F1 team

McLaren had previously run a temporary black livery during the opening test of the season in Barcelona. With this latest launch, all but one team have now presented their colours for 2026, leaving Aston Martin as the only outfit yet to unveil its car.

Stella flags potential game changer in 2026

Earlier, McLaren team principal Andrea Stella identified two factors he expected to play a huge role in the results recorded throughout the 2026 campaign.

The Italian motorsports chief, in his assessment of the new F1 regulations, detailed how the new power unit dynamics, as well as the several driver-adjustable options available under the new rules, could prove to be a deciding factor in the results recorded by teams.

Photo: McLaren F1 team

Stella however concluded by tempering expectations about what to expect with the new cars largely due to their development still being in their early phases.