NEOM McLaren has unveiled its fresh papaya-themed livery for the 11th season of the FIA Formula E Championship, sticking to its signature look across multiple racing series, including Formula 1 and Extreme E. The electric-orange hue, now a hallmark for McLaren, is set to make its mark again on the Formula E grid as the team aims to build upon its breakthrough last season, highlighted by Sam Bird’s epic victory in São Paulo with a thrilling last-lap overtake on Mitch Evans.
Bird, a seasoned veteran with almost two decades of racing under his belt, will team up with rising star Taylor Barnard, who steps in from Formula 2 to replace Jake Hughes. This unique blend of experience and youth gives McLaren a dynamic lineup that has both grit and fresh ambition. Barnard, who stepped in for an injured Bird last season and managed two points finishes in Berlin, now has his sights on podiums and valuable lessons from his experienced teammate.
McLaren Team Principal Ian James praised the new livery as a symbol of McLaren’s growth in the electric racing series: “Our livery for the upcoming season in Formula E is a demonstration of the evolution of the NEOM McLaren Formula E Team throughout the last two seasons,” James noted. He emphasized the team’s meticulous preparations and improvements as they aim to make a bigger impact in Season 11.
Bird, energized for his second year with McLaren, reflected on the team’s familial bond and ambition: “This team has become like family to me, and I believe that we can achieve even better things together. We’ve done some good work in our first season together; now it’s time to build on that and create even better memories.”
Barnard echoed his enthusiasm about learning from Bird: “I am excited to race alongside Sam this season. He’s one of the most experienced drivers on the grid, and I’m confident I’ll learn a lot from him. Together, we aim to score plenty of points and bring home trophies for McLaren.”
With a refreshed look and renewed determination, NEOM McLaren’s dynamic pairing of Bird and Barnard looks set to bring fire to the Formula E grid, fueling the team’s ambition to keep climbing the championship ladder in Season 11.
