A significant difference between McLaren and Mercedes' 2026 Formula 1 cars impacting performance around the lap has been showcased by the Canadian Grand Prix weekend.

McLaren has opted for slightly shorter gear ratios than Mercedes this year, meaning that its drivers are reaching one gear higher on three occasions around the Montreal lap, as well as shifting up earlier as they accelerate.

The choice has advantages and disadvantages, most noticeably contributing to the time lost on the long runs to the Turn 10 hairpin and final chicane that contributed to the 0.151 seconds deficit to polesitter George Russell's Mercedes from Lando Norris's McLaren. However, it also means better acceleration for McLaren that will represent a time gain elsewhere in the lap. The choice would also have subtle impacts on the energy recovery strategy.

Although McLaren uses the Mercedes power unit, it designs and produces its own gearboxes. This gives it free choice on gear ratios, whereas fellow customer teams Alpine and Williams use Mercedes gearboxes and are therefore limited either to the same ratios as the works team or those used the previous year. 

"There are definitely pros and cons with the ratios," said McLaren team principal Andrea Stella when asked by The Race about the apparent shorter gear ratios. "Your observation is correct, we are on the shorter side compared to Mercedes.

"This may give you some advantages in acceleration, for instance possibly it may give you advantages in a start, it may give you advantage in a straight line depending on the speed.

"But it may have some disadvantages, for instance when we have speeds in a long straight, like from corner 10 to 13, then you may want to have a slightly longer, for instance, eighth gear. So it's a bit of a mixed bag as to where you want to be with the ratios."

Forward gear ratios must be nominated at the start of the season and are fixed for the year. But in 2026 the regulations permit what amounts to a 'joker' change to ratios and final drive.

However, Stella says that McLaren has no plans to change its ratios despite being permitted to do so.

"At the moment, we are happy with where we are," said Stella. "We are not considering to review our availability, even though the regulations would allow you to do so.

"But we think that some of the advantages that we cash in in other conditions than the longest straights are overall a positive."