The Importance of Works Engine Deals in Formula 1: McLaren’s Title Drought and the Power of Being a Factory Team

McLaren’s Formula 1 Championship Drought: The Need for a Works Engine Deal

It has been over a decade since McLaren last tasted championship success in Formula 1. The Woking-based team’s last triumph came in 2008 when Lewis Hamilton clinched the driver’s championship in only his second year in the sport. The Constructors’ championship, on the other hand, has eluded McLaren since the 1998 season.

According to renowned F1 presenter David Croft, the key to ending McLaren’s title drought lies in securing a works engine deal. Speaking on the Sky Sports F1 podcast, Croft emphasized the importance of being a works outfit in Formula 1. He pointed out that historically, works teams have enjoyed more success than customer teams, citing examples like Aston Martin’s move to secure a Honda works deal for 2026.

Currently, McLaren receives their power units from Mercedes, who also supply engines to Aston Martin and Williams. Croft praised Aston Martin’s decision to break free from their customer status and opt for a works deal with Honda. He highlighted the performance benefits of having an engine developed specifically for the team’s needs.

The upcoming 2026 regulations in Formula 1 will place even greater emphasis on the power unit side of things. Teams like McLaren will need to have a competitive engine to stay in the championship hunt. Red Bull’s decision to develop their own power units under the Red Bull Power Trains banner further underscores the advantage of being a works outfit.

The success of teams like Mercedes and Ferrari, who have thrived with their ‘home-grown’ engines, serves as a testament to the power of having a works deal in Formula 1. As McLaren looks to end their championship drought, securing a works engine deal could be the key to returning to the pinnacle of the sport.