The Monaco Grand Prix continues to be one of the races where Formula 1 teams most frequently use special color schemes. The trend remained unchanged in 2026, with some teams highlighting designs that will look different on the track.
The special work prepared by Aston Martin for this race offers a look different from the brand's usual colors. The team's "Rock to Racetrack" concept, developed in collaboration with Maaden, tells the story of the transformation of metals and minerals from underground to high-performance engineering.
Highlights
- Aston Martin prepared a special color-changing coating for Monaco.
- The design was presented under the name "Rock to Racetrack" in collaboration with Maaden.
- McLaren will use a special color scheme in metallic papaya and anthracite tones.
- McLaren's design will appear on the track both in Monaco and at the Barcelona weekend.
- The special color scheme was prepared to commemorate the team's 1000th grand prix race.
Aston Martin's design brings a different look
According to the team's statement, the special coating has a shimmering surface that gives the impression that the color changes when the car is on the track. This look was achieved with a specialized coating material and aimed to create a more striking effect for the cars on the track.
It was stated that this design will stand out clearly throughout the race on the cars driven by Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll. Aston Martin's special Monaco color schemes have mostly been limited to small changes in the past; this time, the team produced a work that goes beyond the usual line.
McLaren comes with a special design for two races
McLaren's "metallic papaya and anthracite" color scheme will be used not only in Monaco but also at the next Barcelona weekend. It was noted that the design was prepared to celebrate the team's 1000th grand prix race.
One-off color schemes like these in Formula 1 attract more attention, especially in high-visibility races like Monaco. Teams highlight both their brand identity and mark milestones within the season with different designs.
Context: The Monaco Grand Prix stands out as one of the races where specially designed cars are most talked about. This season, Aston Martin and McLaren are preparing to draw attention not only with race performance but also with visual differences on the track.