McLaren’s F1 testing was cut short by a fuel system problem with their Mercedes engine, as teams focus on reliability under new regulations.
MCLAREN encountered a fuel-supply issue with their Mercedes engine during pre-season testing.
The problem was identified during the lunch break on the penultimate day of private running at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya.
It required extensive investigation and cut short the team’s second testing session.
Australian driver Oscar Piastri had completed 48 laps in the new MCL40 during the Thursday morning run.
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“There’s a lot of challenges this year up and down the grid, so it was good to get stuck in,” said Piastri.
“These cars are completely different to what we’ve had the last few years.”
McLaren’s world champion Lando Norris had driven the car for the first time on Wednesday.
Aston Martin also unveiled their new car, designed by British engineer Adrian Newey, on Thursday.
Canadian driver Lance Stroll was first to take it out on track, with Fernando Alonso set to drive on Friday.
With major technical regulation changes for the upcoming season, teams are prioritising reliability over outright performance this week.
A clearer competitive picture will emerge during official testing in Bahrain next month.
The 2026 Formula 1 season begins with the Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne on March 8. – AFP
