GLOBAL: Google Maps has introduced a limited-time McLaren Formula 1 car avatar, allowing users to replace the familiar blue navigation arrow with an orange racing car while using driving navigation.
The feature celebrates Google’s partnership with McLaren Racing and the United States Grand Prix events taking place in October and November 2026. According to reports, the special avatar will be available until November 23, 2026.
The update brings a motorsport-inspired touch to everyday journeys, giving Formula 1 fans another way to personalise their navigation experience.
How to activate the McLaren F1 car icon
Users can enable the new avatar through the Google Maps settings menu. To try the feature, follow these steps:
- Open the Google Maps app on your smartphone.
- Go to Settings.
- Select Your vehicles.
- Tap Driving avatar.
- Choose the McLaren F1 car from the available options.
Once selected, the orange racing car replaces the standard blue arrow during navigation. The avatar can also appear on compatible in-car displays through Android Auto or Apple CarPlay.
Feature rolling out gradually
The McLaren avatar is being introduced through a server-side rollout, meaning it may not appear for every user immediately. Availability may vary across devices, even when the Google Maps app is updated.
Users who cannot find the option can check again later as the rollout expands. The feature is temporary, with the stated availability ending on November 23, 2026.
Google and McLaren bring Formula 1 to Maps
The special avatar is part of Google’s partnership with McLaren Racing, which began in 2025. Its timing coincides with the United States Grand Prix at Circuit of The Americas in Austin on October 25 and the Las Vegas Grand Prix on November 21–22.
The orange avatar reflects McLaren’s familiar racing colours and offers a visual connection to the team during everyday drives.
McLaren headquarters gets a Street View tour
Alongside the navigation avatar, Google has introduced a Street View collection featuring the McLaren Technology Centre in Surrey, England. The facility serves as the headquarters of McLaren Racing and the home of its Formula 1 team.
The virtual tour includes behind-the-scenes views, interesting facts and interactive elements that let fans explore the centre and learn more about McLaren’s racing and road-car heritage.
Together, the avatar and virtual tour extend the partnership beyond the race track, giving fans new ways to engage with the team through Google’s services.