P1racenews AI automatic summary:
The real 2026 McLaren F1 car has made its debut – here’s what ex-F1 technical director Gary Anderson has noticed about it
McLaren’s 2026 Formula 1 car has made its debut at the Barcelona track, following a behind-closed-doors pre-season test which limited images of the actual car.
Initial observations suggest a benign front wingspan profile, promoting consistent airflow and reducing potential crossflow issues.
The V-shaped profile under the nose increases clearance to the front wing, enhancing airflow quality to the underfloor.
Noteworthy are the ‘snowplough’ vanes under the nose, likely influencing airflow direction and generating vortices for better aerodynamic performance.
The car features intricate front wing elements with slot-gap separators, sculpted endplates, and a horizontal fin to optimize airflow around the tyres.
