McLaren Racing has officially revealed the name of its much-anticipated Hypercar, the MCL-HY, as it prepares to return to the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) in 2027. This announcement marks a significant step in the brand’s long-awaited comeback to top-tier endurance racing after nearly three decades away.
The British manufacturer aims to build on its historic success, including its iconic victory at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1995. Now, with renewed ambition, McLaren sets its sights firmly on competing for overall World Championship honours.
Naming strategy reflects unified vision
The newly named MCL-HY follows McLaren Racing’s established Formula 1 naming convention. By combining the familiar “MCL” prefix with the “HY” designation for Hypercar, the team reinforces a cohesive identity across its racing programmes.
Moreover, this naming approach signals McLaren’s clear commitment to the rapidly growing Hypercar category within the FIA WEC. As anticipation builds, the team has confirmed that the car’s test livery will debut on 4 May, just ahead of its first on-track rollout.
James Barclay, Executive Director of McLaren Endurance Racing, emphasised the importance of this development. He underlined both the emotional and competitive significance of returning to endurance racing’s highest level.
“Taking the McLaren name back to the pinnacle of sportscar racing is a huge milestone,” acknowledged McLaren Endurance Racing Executive Director, James Barclay. “It’s a proud time for everyone within McLaren Racing and McLaren Automotive to share the name of our new Hypercar, which follows in the footsteps of an incredible lineage of McLaren racing cars.
“We are in a golden era of sportscar racing, and the Hypercar category continues to be extremely successful – our new car name shows respect to that.”
Introducing the MCL-HY GTR track variant
Alongside its WEC programme, McLaren has also unveiled a track-focused derivative: the MCL-HY GTR. Developed in collaboration with McLaren Automotive, this variant pays tribute to the legendary model that secured victory at Le Mans on its debut 31 years ago.
In addition, McLaren will support the GTR through its exclusive “Project: Endurance” track day programme. This initiative will offer enthusiasts rare access to the brand’s return to elite endurance racing, thereby strengthening the connection between fans and the team.
A new chapter begins
As McLaren prepares for its competitive return, the introduction of the MCL-HY represents more than just a name. Instead, it symbolises a renewed commitment to innovation, heritage, and success at the highest level of endurance racing.
With testing imminent and excitement building, McLaren’s journey back to the pinnacle of sportscar competition has officially begun.
