McLaren expressed optimism over being in “the fight at the front” at this weekend’s Austrian Grand Prix as they confirmed the introduction of an “experimental rear wing” on the MCL40.
The reigning constructors’ champions have yet to claim a grand prix victory in 2026 and have totalled just four podium finishes across the opening six rounds of the season.
Following Lando Norris’ third-placed finish last time out in Barcelona, the Woking squad appear to believe there is potential for the reigning world champion or his team-mate Oscar Piastri to be elevated to the top step of the podium in Spielberg.
Neil Houldey, McLaren technical director for applied engineering, said: “Austria has historically been a strong track for us, and while we take nothing for granted in such a tight field, we are optimistic that the car and driver characteristics will again suit the circuit, putting us in the fight at the front.”
Houldey also confirmed that McLaren will bring upgrades to the Red Bull Ring as an intense development race continues following the introduction of all-new cars for this season.
Among the new parts will be an “experimental rear wing” that is expected to have similarities with Ferrari’s rotating ‘Macarena wing’, which wowed the paddock when it was first unveiled during pre-season.
Ferrari first ran the part in a competitive session at the Miami Grand Prix, where Red Bull also unveiled their own version of the design, which flips when straight mode is activated.
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Craig Slater takes a closer look at Ferrari’s new upside-down rear wing in China, whilst performing his ‘Macarena’ dance!
“We’re always looking to make refinements that add performance and lap time to the car,” Houldey said.
“For this event, we’ve focused on minor detail updates around the car’s rear corners, as well as an experimental rear wing that will run throughout Friday’s sessions.
“While the overall package is lighter than some of our recent updates, these developments are all part of our season-long development pathway, and we’re continuing to look for every lap time opportunity wherever we can.”
Wolff: Mercedes upgrades to address reliability issues
Mercedes chief Toto Wolff has confirmed that his team will also bring upgrades to Austria, which he says will address some of the reliability issues that have recently plagued the Silver Arrows.
George Russell retired from the lead of the Canadian Grand Prix in May with a technical failure, before world championship leader Kimi Antonelli suffered the same fate last time out in Barcelona when running second.
Antonelli’s DNF in Spain saw his championship lead over Lewis Hamilton reduced to 41 points as the Brit claimed his first grand prix victory for Ferrari.
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Kimi Antonelli goes past Mercedes teammate George Russell before retiring from the race with engine failure.
Wolff said: “Barcelona acted as a benchmark for our current performance and, having won the first six races, offered a reality check.
“Others have gained ground quickly and we need to respond. We are in a fight for both championships but must improve if we want to come out on top come the end of the season.
“Our Achilles heel so far has been reliability. We have lost a large amount of points across both cars in recent races; if we don’t put together clean weekends, our competitors will happily take advantage.
“We are not standing still in our efforts; we will bring a few updates to Austria this weekend with a focus on improving both performance and reliability.”
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An unfortunate power unit failure for George Russell sees him out of the Canadian Grand Prix.
Wolff’s home event in Austria often produces tight and exciting qualifying contests due to the short nature of the lap and relative lack of corners.
He added: “The margins are tight, and will be even tighter around Spielberg given the length of the lap.
“We need to put together a better weekend than we have in recent races but if we can deliver to our maximum, then we know we can challenge for victory.”
Sky Sports F1’s live Austrian GP schedule
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Look back at some of the most dramatic moments throughout the years at the Austrian Grand Prix.
Thursday June 25
2pm: Drivers’ press conference
5pm: Paddock Uncut
Friday June 26
8.50am: F3 Practice
10am: F2 Practice
12pm: Austrian GP Practice One (session starts at 12.30pm)
1.55pm: F3 Qualifying
2.30pm: Team bosses’ press conference
2.50pm: F2 Qualifying
3.35pm: Austrian GP Practice Two (session starts at 4pm)
5.15pm: The F1 Show
Saturday June 27
9am: F3 Sprint
11.15am: Austrian GP Practice Three (session starts at 11.30am)
1.10pm: F2 Sprint
2.15pm: Austrian GP Qualifying build-up*
3pm: AUSTRIAN GP QUALIFYING*
5pm: Ted’s Qualifying Notebook
Sunday June 28
7.35am: F3 Feature Race
9.05am: F2 Feature Race
10.50am: Porsche Supercup
12.30pm: Austrian GP build-up: Grand Prix Sunday*
2pm: THE AUSTRIAN GRAND PRIX*
4pm: Austrian GP reaction: Chequered Flag
5pm: Ted’s Notebook
*Also on Sky Sports Main Event
Formula 1’s European season continues with the Austrian Grand Prix this weekend, live on Sky Sports F1. Stream Sky Sports with NOW – no contract, cancel anytime
Disclaimer : This story is auto aggregated by a computer programme and has not been created or edited by DOWNTHENEWS. Publisher: skynews.com
