Lando Norris enters the 2026 Formula 1 season as the reigning world champion but knows he faces a formidable challenge from his McLaren teammate Oscar Piastri. The British driver has openly acknowledged Piastri’s championship credentials and expects the Australian to “make my life hell” as they battle for supremacy once again.
With new regulations leveling the playing field in terms of car design and power units, Norris is unsure if McLaren’s machinery will give him the edge needed to defend his title. Regardless of the car’s competitiveness, the 26-year-old champion respects Piastri’s relentless drive and determination to succeed.
Piastri, who led the 2025 championship for six months, faced a rough patch after summer but ultimately finished a strong third behind Norris and Max Verstappen. Despite the high stakes, the two teammates have maintained a professional and respectful relationship throughout their time together, avoiding the common pitfalls of intra-team conflict. Even some Australian fans questioned if Piastri was receiving equal treatment from McLaren, but Norris expects the dynamic to remain stable as they enter their fourth season together.
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Norris commented, “It’s the same. [Piastri will respond] by not talking too much and getting on with it. Everyone knows what he can do. He’ll show exactly what he did last year—that he can be an incredible driver and a world champion. I expect him to make my life hell.”
Piastri, reflecting on his most competitive F1 season yet, expressed pride in his progress and reiterated his commitment to becoming a world champion. He addressed concerns from his Australian supporters about team dynamics, insisting he believes he received a fair shot last season.
“I’m not here just to be known as a ‘nice person,’” Piastri said. “I’m here to try to become an F1 world champion—and I’m very proud of how I’ve gone about it. Sure, the end of last year was painful, but you can either let that bring you down or use it as motivation. With the new rules this season, it’s been a great way to channel that energy.”
He continued, “I think I got a fair shot last year, and I expect that to continue. Some things could have been handled better, but that’s part of elite sport and F1. You can’t please everyone all the time. There were no bad intentions or doubts in my mind about that. We’re focused on learning from last year and becoming stronger moving forward.”
As McLaren’s star drivers prepare for another season of fierce competition, fans can expect a thrilling battle for the 2026 championship.