The MCL35 and its livery were originally unveiled in February 2020, featuring the McLaren corporate colours of papaya and blue. Prior to the first race of the season in Austria, McLaren revealed the addition of a rainbow graphic on the sidepod and halo in recognition of Formula One's "#WeRaceAsOne" campaign. The changes were interpreted by some as representing the LGBT+ rainbow flag, but McLaren stated the rainbow represented their support for diversity in general and provided recognition for essential workers rather than any specific cause.