Formula 1 saw McLaren backtrack on one of its innovations for the 2026 Canadian GP after a start considered below expectations. The team decided to abandon the new front wing of the MCL40 before the Sprint Qualifying in Montreal.
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The new component debuted in TL1 with Lando Norris and was later also used by Oscar Piastri. The part had been developed to improve aerodynamic flow and increase downforce under different car operating conditions, according to the team’s own description sent to the FIA.
However, a few hours later, both drivers reverted to using the old front wing specification in Sprint Qualifying. Still, Norris and Piastri managed third and fourth places on the grid, just over three tenths behind the pole secured by George Russell.
McLaren’s technical engineering director, Neil Houldey, explained the decision made during the Canadian weekend. “We realized during the session that the front wing was not delivering exactly what we expected. We then chose to return to the previous specification, which gave the drivers more confidence and allowed us to extract more performance,” he said.
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Norris also admitted doubts about the new component and highlighted that the Montreal circuit makes more precise evaluations difficult. “Some things may be more questionable and we need more time to review everything. This track is very different, with low grip and many curbs, so it’s hard to get a real reading of the behavior,” he said.
Despite this, the Brit believes the update could return in the upcoming European rounds. “We will probably reintroduce some parts next weekend or in Barcelona,” he explained. Norris also highlighted that the rest of the car worked well and said he regained confidence in Q3, especially using the Soft tires.
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