Woking, UK – In an unprecedented move, Champions McLaren announced on Friday that they will be auctioning one of their 2026 Formula One cars even before it has hit the track. This groundbreaking sale is part of a trio of future chassis offered by the racing giant at a RM Sotheby’s auction on December 5, held ahead of this year’s season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
A Trio of Future McLaren Machines on Offer
The centerpiece of the auction is a 2026 Formula One car, which will be driven by either Oscar Piastri or Lando Norris in the upcoming season. McLaren Chief Executive Zak Brown highlighted the historical significance of this offering, stating it would be the first time a future Formula One car has been sold before its public unveiling. This as-yet unnamed 2026 car, likely to be designated the MCL40, will mark McLaren’s entry into a new era of Formula One, characterized by significant changes in technical and engine regulations.
Beyond the F1 machine, the auction also includes two other significant future McLaren race cars:
- A 2026 Arrow McLaren IndyCar, which will be raced by Mexican driver Pato O’Ward at the iconic Indianapolis 500 next May.
- McLaren’s inaugural 2027 World Endurance Hypercar, set to compete in the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Delivery, Access, and McLaren’s Legacy
The successful bidder for the 2026 F1 car will have to wait until 2028 to take physical delivery of their unique acquisition. In the interim, the buyer will be offered a 2025 show car on lease and will receive exclusive behind-the-scenes access to the McLaren F1 team and various events. The IndyCar and Hypercar will be delivered after their respective series have concluded.
McLaren stands as the only team to have achieved the coveted ‘Triple Crown’ of motorsport, having won the Monaco Grand Prix, the Indianapolis 500, and the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Their return to endurance racing in 2027 underscores their continuous ambition to add to their already unparalleled success in motorsport.
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