McLaren confirmed that an “experimental” rear wing will appear on Oscar Piastri’s car during Friday’s practice sessions at the Austrian Grand Prix, but the part will not be run in the race. Piastri told the press that the component is on Lando Norris’s car for testing only and is not yet ready for competition.
Technical Director Neil Houldey said the team has focused on minor updates to the car’s rear corners and a lighter overall package, with the experimental wing forming part of a season‑long development pathway. The move follows similar experiments by Ferrari and Red Bull, who have each tried rotating rear‑wing concepts under the new 2026 active‑aerodynamics rules.
Piastri, who struggled in Barcelona, said the team has identified the causes of his poor performance and has a plan to avoid repeat mistakes. McLaren sit third in the Constructors’ standings, more than 100 points behind leaders Mercedes, and hope the data from Austria will help close the gap and give them a chance to capitalize on rivals’ missteps.
.webp)
