Reigning constructors' champions McLaren expect to begin the 2026 season on the back foot, with team principal Andrea Stella acknowledging they will need to play 'catch-up' based on pre-season testing performance. Ferrari and Red Bull looked stronger in Bahrain, and Stella admits McLaren may take a defensive approach in the early races while development catches up. It's a humble assessment from the title holders, who know the new regulations have reshuffled the competitive order.