McLaren to cease participation in major racing class by the end of 2026

McLaren joined the electric racing class prior to the 2022/2023 Formula E season, succeeding Mercedes EQ, the team with which Nyck de Vries became world champion in 2022. However, the iconic papaya colour appears to be leaving Formula E by the end of 2026. Rumours suggest McLaren plans to exit the sport at the end of the Gen3 era.

This was reported by The Race, which is usually well-informed regarding developments within Formula E Team boss Ian James was reportedly informed of the news earlier this year by McLaren CEO Zak Brown. The team is set to appear at the start of the Gen4 era with a new name and identity. 

The team is currently in discussions with various parties, including a potential supplier for the powertrains. The Saudi Arabian title sponsor NEOM is bound to the team until 2026, and there was an option to extend this partnership further. However, this option will reportedly not be utilised.

GPblog has inquired with McLaren's Formula E team following the rumours. “Like all racing teams, we regularly assess our competitive landscape to ensure we are set up for growth, but we are fully focused on delivering a successful Formula E season, building on the team’s strong performance across this season so far," the team told GPBlog.

McLaren recently announced that it would return to the WEC from 2027, and that it would also compete in the iconic 24 Hours of Le Mans. It could well be that the Woking-based team will shift its focus from Formula E to endurance racing.