P1racenews AI automatic summary:
McLaren excelled late in the ground effects era with its floor design, but all new designs for 2026 have changed the idea.
McLaren is acknowledging that their advantage in 2025 will be reduced due to the new F1 floor rules. Throughout the ground effects era from 2022 to 2025, McLaren improved significantly, transforming from backmarkers to champions by the end of 2024. The MCL39 was dominant in the first half of the 2025 season, leading to McLaren claiming their first championship double since 1998. However, with the introduction of new floor rules for 2026, the team is adapting to the changes to the aerodynamics and car design. Chief designer Rob Marshall emphasized the team’s acceptance of the new car design, acknowledging the differences and challenges it presents while remaining hopeful for an exciting driving experience.
