McLaren F1 team extend Mercedes engine deal to 2030

ABU DHABI :The McLaren Formula One team will use Mercedes power units until at least 2030 after extending their existing deal into the sport's new engine era that starts in 2026, both parties announced on Friday.

McLaren, whose drivers are Britain's Lando Norris and Australian Oscar Piastri, are the first customer team to commit to the new Mercedes power unit alongside the works outfit.

"It has been a cornerstone of our motorsport strategy to work with strong customer teams," said Mercedes F1 boss Toto Wolff in a statement ahead of the season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

"This has many advantages: it gives a clear competitive benchmark, accelerates our technical learning, and strengthens the overall F1 business case for Mercedes-Benz."

McLaren are fourth in the constructors' championship, ahead of Aston Martin who will be switching from Mercedes to Honda engines in 2026.

Mercedes also power Williams but the new engine era will see the number of manufacturers increase from four at present - Mercedes, Ferrari, Renault and Red Bull/Honda - to a potential seven with Audi entering in 2026 and Red Bull starting a new partnership with Ford.

General Motors have formally registered with the governing FIA to provide power units for a proposed Andretti Cadillac team from 2028.

The new power units from 2026 will be 50 per cent internal combustion and 50 per cent electric, with a maximum output of more than 1,000 horsepower, and run on 100 per cent sustainable fuel.

Former champions McLaren have used Mercedes engines since 2021 and were also partners with the German brand from 1995 to 2014.

"We have great confidence in Mercedes and our relationship with them," said McLaren team principal Andrea Stella.

"They’ve supported our journey back to