The Woking squad has revealed a metallic papaya and what it described as an “anthracite” design that will feature on the MCL40 driven by Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri at both the Monaco and Spanish Grands Prix, celebrating its six decades in F1.
The livery incorporates a series of references to key moments from McLaren’s past, including race victories, championship successes, the Triple Crown and the team’s record-breaking pit stop of 1.80 seconds, which it achieved at the 2023 Qatar Grand Prix.
Both Norris and Piastri will also wear matching special edition race suits across the two race weekends.
The occasion carries added significance given Monaco was the venue for McLaren’s first F1 race in 1966, when founder Bruce McLaren drove the team’s M2B entry on the streets of the principality.
The original M2B will be displayed alongside the current MCL40 during a special ceremony on the Monaco grid on Thursday to mark the occasion, where CEO Zak Brown, team principal Andrea Stella, Norris and Piastri will be joined by former McLaren grand prix winners and Formula 1 president and CEO Stefano Domenicali.
Brown said the milestone offered an opportunity to reflect on the team’s journey through F1.
“Lining up on the grid to race McLaren’s 1000th grand prix in Monaco this year provides a perfect opportunity to recognise our rich history in motorsport,” Brown said.
“We’re only the second team to reach this incredible milestone, so what better moment to reflect on our past, our present and our future.
“Throughout our past, this team has always shown grit and determination, whether that be in periods of success or the trickier times.
“McLaren never quits, and this livery and the moment on Thursday is a special way to celebrate how far we’ve come.
“We look forward to running it out on track and recognising what we have achieved from our first race, here in Monaco back in 1966, through to now. Here’s to 1000 more.”
Since making its Formula 1 debut 60 years ago, McLaren has amassed 203 grand prix victories, 561 podium finishes, 177 pole positions, 13 drivers’ championships and 10 constructors’ titles.
Piastri, who is only the second Australian to drive for McLaren after Daniel Ricciardo, said it was a privilege to represent McLaren during the milestone weekend.
“I am excited to hit the track in this very special livery. 1000 grands prix is a huge achievement for the team, and it is a privilege to be out there representing McLaren for the occasion,” Piastri said.
“The car looks mega, and it feels fitting that this celebration has lined up to be where the team first raced in the championship, 60 years ago.
“We’ll do what we can to push hard and in the aim of bringing home some silverware this weekend to commemorate the moment. Here’s to 1000 – I look forward to racing for McLaren for many more.”
Reigning world champion Lando Norris, who became the eighth different driver to win a drivers’ title in a McLaren in 2025, said it was a special moment for the team.
“It’s a very special weekend for us as we celebrate such an incredible milestone,” he said.
“The livery looks fantastic, and where better to celebrate this than at one of the most iconic races on the calendar and the location of the team’s first grand prix.
“To have played my small part in McLaren’s incredible history is something I am very proud of.
“McLaren is a team I looked up to when I was younger and it’s an honour to represent the men and women that make up this team for its 1000th GP.”
McLaren will become only the second Formula 1 team to reach the 1000 grand prix milestone, following Ferrari, which achieved the feat at the 2020 Tuscan Grand Prix.
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