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Google Maps Adds a McLaren F1 Icon

Discover the limited-time McLaren F1 driving icon in Google Maps, how to select it, and why it might not appear on your device yet.
Google Maps McLaren F1 driving icon illustrated on a navigation map.

Google Maps has added a McLaren Formula 1 car as a driving avatar, according to an Android Central report published on October 5, 2026. The limited-time option celebrates the United States Grand Prix and is available to select until November 23, 2026.

The update gives racing fans another way to personalize the marker they see during navigation. It is an appearance option, so choose it because you enjoy the design rather than expecting a new navigation tool.

Where to Find the McLaren Avatar

Android Central reports this route inside Google Maps:

  1. Tap your profile icon.
  2. Open Settings.
  3. Select Your vehicles.
  4. Open Driving avatar and look for McLaren.

If the option is present, select it for your navigation marker.

Another Way to Change Your Driving Avatar

Google's official help page describes a general method for choosing avatars:

  1. Open Google Maps and start navigation.
  2. Tap the blue arrow or your current vehicle marker.
  3. Swipe through the available avatars.
  4. Choose a color where offered, then tap Done.

This is Google's general customization guidance, not a promise that the McLaren choice will appear on every account. Make your selection while parked, before setting off.

Why Might the McLaren Option Be Missing?

The report's author saw it on an iPhone Air but not a Pixel 11 Pro, despite both having the latest Maps version. The author therefore suggests a server-side rollout; that is an observation, not a confirmed worldwide availability schedule.

If it is missing, check again later. There is no need to treat an absent optional avatar as evidence of a problem with your phone. Keep a note of which device and account you checked if you want to compare availability later.

Can You Return to the Blue Arrow?

Yes. Google says you can switch back to the arrow at any time using the avatar selector.

Try the new look on a familiar route first and decide whether the marker remains easy for you to recognize. A customization is useful only if you like using it.

How Long Is It Available?

The reported selection deadline is November 23, 2026. The report does not confirm what happens afterward to an avatar already selected, so permanent retention should not be assumed.

Sources: Android Central's McLaren avatar report and Google's driving avatar instructions.

Related: Three Chrome Features Worth Trying.

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