McLaren has taken a significant step towards its return to top-level endurance racing, successfully completing the first on-track running of its LMDh prototype, the McLaren MCL-HY, during a shakedown in Italy.
The initial test took place at the Autodromo Riccardo Paletti—a circuit closely linked to chassis partner Dallara. The venue’s proximity to Dallara’s headquarters made it an ideal location for this crucial early phase of development.
Shortly before the official unveiling at 10:00am on Monday, the car’s 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged V6 engine—developed by Autotecnica Motori—roared into life in the pit lane, marking the first audible sign of McLaren’s renewed endurance ambitions. Moments later, the car completed its maiden laps, signalling the beginning of an intensive testing programme ahead of its planned debut in the FIA World Endurance Championship in 2027.
Behind the wheel for this landmark occasion was Mikkel Jensen, the first driver confirmed for McLaren’s Hypercar project. His role during the shakedown was focused on installation laps—ensuring that all core systems, including gearbox, hybrid components, and software architecture, functioned as intended.
Jensen reported a positive initial impression, noting that the programme ran largely to plan and that the car demonstrated encouraging early reliability. While outright performance was not the priority, the team gathered valuable baseline data to guide future development.
Key Technical Overview
| Component | Specification |
|---|---|
| Car name | McLaren MCL-HY |
| Class | LMDh (Hypercar) |
| Engine | 3.0L twin-turbo V6 |
| Engine supplier | Autotecnica Motori |
| Chassis | Dallara |
| Debut target | 2027 WEC season |
The testing effort is being spearheaded by United Autosports, with leadership from James Barclay, who described the day as a “milestone moment” for the programme. Barclay emphasised that this first outing represents only the beginning of a demanding journey back to endurance racing’s top tier.
McLaren’s long-term objective is to compete not only in the WEC but also at the iconic 24 Hours of Le Mans—a race synonymous with the pinnacle of sportscar competition. The 2026 season will be dedicated entirely to testing and development, allowing engineers and drivers to refine performance, durability, and operational procedures.
Jensen will be joined in development duties by a growing driver line-up, including Grégoire Saucy, Richard Verschoor, and Ben Hanley, as McLaren builds a competitive foundation.
While challenges undoubtedly lie ahead in an increasingly competitive Hypercar field, the successful rollout of the MCL-HY marks a promising beginning. For McLaren, it is both a symbolic return and a technically ambitious project aimed at re-establishing its presence among endurance racing’s elite.
