Mercedes challenged as McLaren prepare big changes for Miami GP

McLaren principal Andrea Stella has confirmed the team will bring a 'completely new car' to the F1 Miami Grand Prix, with major upgrades spread across the Miami and Canada rounds effectively producing an entirely new MCL40. The team has used a five-week enforced break — caused by the cancellation of the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix due to Middle East conflict — to accelerate development work. McLaren heads into Miami looking to challenge Mercedes, who have set the early pace in the 2026 season, after showing improved form at the Japanese Grand Prix where Piastri finished second.