McLaren is bringing new upgrades for the MCL40 during the Dutch GP at Zandvoort. The team wants to continue the strong form from Hungary and is once again introducing parts in Zandvoort that aim to improve the rear of the car. McLaren won the last race in Budapest through Lando Norris and wants to make up for the lack of points in the first half of the year in the second half of the season. The reigning champions are third in the constructors’ championship.
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Lando Norris dominated the race at the Hungaroring after McLaren brought a comprehensive upgrade package there. Among other things, their own version of the so-called ‘Macarena rear wing’ was tested. In Zandvoort, that solution seems to be used for the first time during a race. McLaren is focusing the new developments specifically on the rear of the car. These are additional parts that complement the package from Hungary, including a new rear wing and new air ducts for the rear brakes.
New McLaren parts
“The goal is to quickly validate the new parts, understand their contribution throughout the weekend, and make the most of every available opportunity,” the team said in a press release. Technical director Neil Houldey simultaneously emphasizes that McLaren is taking the competition into account. “As a team, we have also worked hard on further development, with a number of parts available this weekend, especially for the rear. But we know that other teams will also come with developments.”
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Based on the latest Grands Prix at Zandvoort, the prospects are good. McLaren won the last two editions, through Norris in 2024 and Piastri in 2025. Nevertheless, the British team remains realistic. “It will be a tough race again and our focus is on getting the maximum out of the car. If we perform well, we can mix it up with the top teams.” Houldey continues: “We are entering an extremely demanding second half of the season and with twelve races to go, the team’s attention remains fully focused on our own development and performance. We are building on the work done in the first half of the season to achieve more consistency in delivering performance with the MCL40.”
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