McLaren unveiled its 2026 Formula 1 livery on February 9, retaining much of its signature papaya and black design with minimal changes from 2025. Fans expressed divided opinions, with some appreciating the continuity and others disappointed by the lack of innovation. Team CEO Zak Brown defended the choice, emphasizing the success of the current look.
McLaren, based in Woking, revealed its 2026 Formula 1 livery during an event on Monday, February 9, making it one of the last teams to do so for the upcoming season. The design sticks closely to the familiar papaya color scheme accented by black elements, including narrower diagonal black stripes on the sidepods. This continuity has sparked a lukewarm response among supporters, who had anticipated more significant alterations despite the built-up excitement.
On Reddit, reactions varied widely. One fan remarked, "Spoiler alert: it's the same. As Zak put it during launch: We don't want to change what's been successful, and papaya looks amazing." Another expressed frustration: "So basically McLaren will put the same livery out every season until they start making sh**boxes again." A more tempered view came from a user who said, "Basically the same. Ehhh. Guess it’s OK, but I was genuinely excited for something a bit different."
Some observers noted subtle tweaks, like a narrower black stripe, while others saw it as a strategic move to establish papaya as McLaren's enduring brand, akin to Ferrari's iconic red. An optimistic commenter shared, "Maybe it's a hot take, but I really like the papaya liveries, and I don't think they need to make radical changes to it."
McLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown addressed the minimal updates during the launch. "That's intentional," he explained. "We don't want to change what's been successful. And the papaya looks amazing. Our partners are awesome. This Mastercard era, Gemini with Google, and OKX... I mean, the list goes on of just unbelievable companies that are supporting us."
Brown also touched on technical aspects, noting, "Cars are a little bit smaller. When you hear it, it sounds good. The HPP Mercedes engine is amazing. So, I'm looking forward to getting racing." The livery's reveal underscores McLaren's focus on stability amid evolving regulations for 2026.