McLaren cannot fix F1 car handling issues until 2027

McLaren Team Principal Andrea Stella has stated that the team cannot resolve the complex handling and grip issues of their current Formula 1 car without fundamental changes, which are not expected until 2027. While the team can add aerodynamic load in upcoming races, Stella believes these incremental updates will not fix the underlying driving characteristics.

Drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri have both struggled to adapt to the current vehicle. Norris described the driving experience as mentally exhausting, noting that the car is at its limit in every corner and requires constant forcing to perform. The handling issues have reportedly affected Piastri more significantly due to his specific driving style. The team anticipates that a more comprehensive technical solution will only be possible with the introduction of the next generation of vehicles in 2027.