P1racenews AI automatic summary:
There’s a significant difference in Mercedes and McLaren’s 2026 F1 car choices that’s showing up in Montreal
The Canadian Grand Prix weekend highlighted a significant performance difference between McLaren and Mercedes’ 2026 Formula 1 cars due to McLaren’s choice of slightly shorter gear ratios.
This decision by McLaren means their drivers reach one gear higher on three occasions around the Montreal track and shift up earlier during acceleration.
While this choice resulted in a time loss on long runs to specific corners, it also offers advantages like better acceleration in other parts of the lap, potentially impacting the energy recovery strategy.
McLaren’s ability to design and produce its own gearboxes gives them freedom in choosing gear ratios, unlike customer teams Alpine and Williams, who use Mercedes gearboxes.
Despite being permitted to change ratios during the season, McLaren has decided to stick with their current setup as they believe the advantages in certain conditions outweigh the disadvantages like a possible loss on the longest straights.
