McLaren unveils its special livery for its 1000th Grand Prix in Monaco

As luck would have it, it's on the same circuit as the one where the team McLaren made its debut in 1966, and the Woking-based team will celebrate its thousandth Grand Prix 60 years later. Formula 1A number that only Classic Ferrari for sale had managed to achieve this in the past, during the 2020 season. For the occasion, the single-seaters of Lando Norris et Oscar piastri will arrive in the Principality with new colours.

At first glance, the MCL40 livery appears very similar to that used throughout the rest of the season, but the usual orange and black have actually been swapped for metallic papaya and anthracite, giving it a bright, glossy look particularly suited to the streets of Monte Carlo. Several dates also adorn the livery, primarily those of the world titles won by the drivers or by the Woking-based team itself. Lando Norris will, as at every Grand Prix this season, have the opportunity to drive on the streets of Monaco wearing the number 1 reserved for the reigning world champion.

“Taking part in McLaren’s 1,000th Grand Prix in Monaco this year is the perfect opportunity to pay tribute to our rich history in motorsport. We are only the second team to reach this incredible milestone; what better time to look back on our past, present, and future?” explained Zak Brown, CEO of McLaren Racing. “Throughout our history, this team has always shown courage and determination, whether in times of success or in more difficult moments. McLaren never gives up, and this livery and this moment on Thursday are a special way to celebrate the journey we have made. We can’t wait to get it out on track and pay tribute to what we have achieved since our first race here in Monaco in 1966, right up to today. On to 1,000 more.”

On Thursday, the MCL40 will line up on the starting grid of the Monaco Grand Prix alongside the M2B, McLaren's first F1 car, for a special event celebrating the history of the brand founded by Bruce McLaren. Current drivers, Zak Brown, and Andrea Stella, the team's current principal, will be present. All former Grand Prix winners, as well as F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali, are also invited to this special occasion.

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