McLaren "not only on time, but well prepared" for the first test run of its Hypercar 

When we visited them last January, the program's stakeholders McLaren Hypercar, led by James Barclay, announced a first test drive during the second quarter of the year. May – an ambitious month in many respects – was even mentioned. In this case, the deadlines were meticulously met, according to the British boss. “Over a year ago, we set ourselves an ambitious goal: to present our Hypercar on May 4, 2026. Witnessing the MCL-HY leaving the garage, just after 9 a.m. that day, was a moment of great pride for the entire team and our suppliers.” James Barclay rejoiced. The organization, determination, collaboration, and effort required to achieve this are simply exceptional.

At the Autodromo Riccardo Paletti in Varano de' Melegari, Mikkel Jensen was the first to take to the track, while Grégoire Saucy, development driver for the McLaren program (which is now working on the car's development), joined him in the afternoon on a dry track. The following day, the McLaren and United Autosport teams were forced to postpone their plans on a wet circuit. Nevertheless, the British manufacturer indicated that the car was able to be pushed to its full potential over the two days.

“It’s a real honor to be the first to pilot the MCL-HY,” commented Mikkel Jensen, first driver officially announced by McLaren. When I chose to skip the WEC "My goal this season, and to join McLaren Racing upon their return to the highest level of endurance racing, was to experience moments like this. These two successful days of testing confirm my choices, and I leave Italy completely satisfied. A huge congratulations to the team for reaching this important milestone; after these tests, I am even more convinced that this program will be exceptional."

Regarding what comes next, the upcoming test sessions will be closely monitored for several reasons. On the purely mechanical and technical side, but also in terms of the drivers chosen to participate in these tests. Indeed, alongside Jensen, the newly announced drivers will certainly become known as the 2026 season progresses, with a highly anticipated arrival at the start of 2027.

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