McLaren has recently gained access to the same Mercedes power unit simulation tools that the works team uses, a development confirmed by McLaren Team Principal Andrea Stella around the 2026 Belgian Grand Prix. This new capability allows McLaren to better prepare for race weekends by simulating and optimising power unit deployment, driving strategies, and gear usage ahead of events.
Stella explained that until the Spa weekend, McLaren had not been able to use these advanced simulation tools due to timing and workload constraints within Mercedes’ High Performance Powertrains division. The introduction of these resources has already shown benefits, with McLaren demonstrating strong pace during practice and qualifying sessions at Spa. Lando Norris, in particular, was often near the top of the timesheets, qualifying third despite facing a grid penalty for a power unit change.
While Norris’s penalty means he will start 13th on the grid, Stella accepted this as a necessary compromise for longer-term gains. He also highlighted the complexity involved in optimising power unit performance, noting that even Mercedes works drivers such as Kimi Antonelli and George Russell experience variations in how the power unit operates. This underscores the value of having access to the same simulation tools as the factory team.
Looking ahead, McLaren plans to introduce car upgrades starting from the Hungarian Grand Prix, aiming to build on the improved performance indicated at Spa. The access to Mercedes’ simulation tools is expected to enhance McLaren’s ability to fine-tune race strategies and power unit deployment, which could be a key factor in their ongoing development throughout the season.
Andrea Stella’s comments provide insight into the technical collaboration between customer teams and power unit suppliers in Formula 1®. While McLaren is not yet at the same level as the Mercedes works team, having these tools narrows the gap in preparation and optimisation capabilities. It also reflects the intricate nature of managing modern Formula 1® power units, where even small differences in deployment can affect performance significantly.
Overall, this development marks a step forward for McLaren’s competitiveness in the 2026 season. The team’s ability to leverage Mercedes’ simulation technology alongside planned upgrades could contribute to more consistent and strategic race weekends. The situation highlights how access to advanced technical resources plays a crucial role in the evolving landscape of Formula 1® performance.