LEGO McLaren F1 Championship Pairing Launches March 2026 – Speed Champions & Technic Celebrate 2025 Constructor's Title
2025 saw Formula One’s first season-long drivers’ title fight in a few years, but in the end it was the Papaya team on top, who swept both championships with the mighty McLaren MCL39.
It’s no surprise that LEGO’s pick for the 2026 entry of 1:8 large-scale Technic F1 cars is 42228 McLaren MCL39 F1 car, the fastest model of the ground-effect era.
It’s an iconic car that dominated the Constructor’s Championship, with McLaren’s papaya-powered challenger propelling Lando Norris to his first driver’s championship in a thrilling end to the season. As Formula One enters a new era of regulations and designs, let’s take a look back at the pinnacle of technical evolution from these last set of regulations, and see how well they translate to LEGO form.
42228 McLaren MCL39 F1 car will be released on 1 March 2026, and can be pre-ordered now from LEGO.com.
Pre-order both sets now from LEGO.com. The Technic 1,675-piece model offers adults 1:8 scale replica with working steering, suspension, V6 engine, and DRS functionality, while the Speed Champions 269-piece build targets ages 10+ with display-scale F1® car and driver minifigure.
This pairing continues LEGO's recent strategy of launching coordinated releases across Speed Champions and Technic themes, allowing collectors to celebrate the same vehicle at different scales and complexity levels. The MCL39's 2025 championship victory adds commemorative significance beyond typical licensed F1® releases.
Pre-orders are live now at LEGO.com for both sets launching March 1st, 2026.
LEGO Technic 42228 McLaren MCL39 F1
LEGO® Technic 42228 McLaren MCL39 F1® Car brings 1,675 pieces recreating the championship-winning 2025 McLaren in stunning 1:8 scale. This adult-focused build celebrates McLaren's 2025 FIA Formula 1® Constructors Championship victory with comprehensive working functions and authentic racing details.
The model features working steering, push-rod and pull-rod suspension, differential, and 2-speed gearbox demonstrating F1® engineering principles. The removable engine cover reveals detailed V6 engine, while the DRS activator adjusts the rear wing recreating the drag reduction system used in real F1® racing. The build's mechanical complexity provides immersive construction experience for adults seeking challenging projects.
At 24 inches long, 9.5 inches wide, and 5 inches high, the 1:8 scale MCL39 commands substantial display presence. The papaya-and-blue McLaren livery and detailed aerodynamic elements capture the championship-winning car's aggressive design. The model targets adult builders interested in engineering concepts and premium display pieces.
