McLaren's milestone in Monaco ignites discussion over counting methods.

      McLaren will commemorate what it claims is its 1000th Formula 1 grand prix this weekend in Monaco with a special anniversary livery. The world champions have revealed a modified design in papaya and anthracite, prominently featuring ‘1000’ on the engine cover, which marks what the team considers a significant milestone.

      The timing is meaningful, as Monaco was where founder Bruce McLaren made his debut 60 years ago, and the Woking-based team holds the record for the most victories in the principality’s history, with 16 wins. However, not everyone is in agreement with the numbers. Auto Motor und Sport journalist Joel Lischka pointed out that multiple Formula 1 databases register Monaco as only McLaren's 999th championship event, implying the team may have included the notorious 2005 US GP in their count. That race witnessed all Michelin-equipped cars entering the pits after the formation lap due to safety issues, resulting in only six cars starting.

      "As for the counting method, McLaren seems to have slightly manipulated the figures," Lischka remarked. "Regardless, celebrating the 1000th Grand Prix in Monaco during the team's 60th F1 anniversary is certainly more spectacular than a week later in Barcelona."

      The unique livery comes as the reigning world champions aim to recover from another round of criticism regarding their strategic choices. Despite having one of the fastest cars on the grid, both Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri started on intermediate tyres in Montreal when the track was already mostly dry. Veteran correspondent Michael Schmidt was among those perplexed. "Nobody understood it," he stated. "Everyone was shaking their heads. How could anyone even consider starting on intermediate tyres?"

      Schmidt asserted that strategy continues to be one of McLaren’s significant weaknesses despite their recent achievements. "McLaren is strategically weak," he said, referencing a series of questionable decisions in 2025 as well. "The same issue occurred in Miami. They waited too long and were outmaneuvered by Mercedes. That’s a major flaw that they need to resolve."