‘Papaya era’ lights up Bahrain as McLaren unveils MCL40 with HRH Prince Salman
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The “Papaya era” is in full swing in Bahrain as HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa joined the McLaren Mastercard Formula 1 team at the Bahrain International Circuit to unveil the all-new MCL40 ahead of the 2026 season.
The high-profile reveal marked a key moment in the build-up to the new Formula 1 campaign, with McLaren showcasing its latest challenger under the lights in Sakhir. The MCL40 represents the team’s next chapter as it prepares to compete in a transformative season shaped by major regulation changes.
To celebrate the occasion, landmarks across the Kingdom were illuminated in McLaren’s signature papaya orange, creating a striking visual tribute to the British team and its strong ties with Bahrain.
The symbolic gesture underscores Bahrain’s long-standing relationship with McLaren and its deep-rooted presence in the Kingdom’s motorsport landscape. As anticipation builds for the new season, the unveiling of the MCL40 has set the tone for what promises to be another thrilling year in Formula 1.
