McLaren and Mercedes Set for Key Upgrades Ahead of Austrian Grand Prix

McLaren are optimistic about their prospects for the upcoming Austrian Grand Prix, confirming the introduction of an experimental rear wing for the MCL40 as they aim to challenge for the win in Spielberg.

Despite being the reigning constructors’ champions, the team is searching for its first victory of the 2026 season, having secured only four podium finishes in the first six rounds. Following Lando Norris’ third-place finish in Barcelona, the Woking-based squad believes that either Norris or Oscar Piastri could potentially secure a victory this weekend.

Neil Houldey, McLaren’s technical director for applied engineering, noted: “Austria has historically been a strong track for us. 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.”

Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player

Houldey confirmed that the team is continuing an intense development race following the introduction of their new car. The “experimental rear wing” is expected to mirror the rotating design pioneered by Ferrari, which gained significant attention during pre-season and was later adapted by Red Bull.

“We’re always looking to make refinements that add performance and lap time to the car,” Houldey explained. “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.”

Mercedes Focusing on Reliability and Performance

Mercedes Team Principal Toto Wolff has also confirmed a series of upgrades for the Red Bull Ring, specifically designed to resolve the reliability issues that have hampered the Silver Arrows recently.

Technical failures have proven costly for Mercedes; George Russell retired from the lead of the Canadian Grand Prix in May, and championship leader Kimi Antonelli suffered a similar fate while running second in Barcelona. Antonelli’s retirement in Spain allowed Lewis Hamilton to close the gap to 41 points after Hamilton secured his first victory for Ferrari.

Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player

Wolff remarked: “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. Our Achilles heel so far has been reliability. If we don’t put together clean weekends, our competitors will happily take advantage.”

Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player

With the short lap and minimal corners at Spielberg typically leading to tight qualifying sessions, Wolff emphasized the need for precision. “The margins are tight, and will be even tighter around Spielberg. 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.”

Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player

Austrian GP Event Schedule

Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player

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
1.55pm: F3 Qualifying
2.30pm: Team bosses’ press conference
2.50pm: F2 Qualifying
3.35pm: Austrian GP Practice Two
5.15pm: The F1 Show

Saturday June 27
9am: F3 Sprint
11.15am: Austrian GP Practice Three
1.10pm: F2 Sprint
2.15pm: 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: Grand Prix Sunday build-up
2pm: THE AUSTRIAN GRAND PRIX
4pm: Chequered Flag reaction
5pm: Ted’s Notebook

Source link