Lando Norris delivered a measured but optimistic verdict after taking McLaren’s new MCL40 for its first run at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. “It still feels like a McLaren,” he remarked, reassuring fans and rivals alike as the reigning world champion begins preparations for the 2026 Formula 1 season.
Following McLaren’s dominant 2025 campaign—where they secured their second consecutive Constructors' Championship, finishing an impressive 364 points ahead of Mercedes and winning 14 of 24 Grands Prix—the expectations for the MCL40 are sky-high. Norris himself clinched his first Drivers' Championship title last year, fending off a fierce late-season charge from Max Verstappen.
Addressing the fresh challenges posed by the 2026 regulations and the new car, Norris acknowledged that development is ongoing. “This is still going to take a while,” he said, noting the difference between testing conditions in Barcelona and those expected in Bahrain and Melbourne. “We’re gathering as much data as possible in every condition—dry, wet, whatever comes our way. The more laps we can do, the better.”
READ MORE: Butlin’s Through the Years: 80 Epic Photographs
READ MORE: Legal Delays Stall Nearly 2,700 Somerset Homes Across 11 Key Development Sites
Norris emphasized that despite the technical advancements, the car retains the core McLaren identity. “It still feels powerful and like a true Formula 1 car, which is the most important thing.”
Discussing the new generation of ground-effect cars, Norris pointed out that cornering speeds have decreased slightly compared to last year. However, straight-line acceleration has improved, with the MCL40 reaching speeds of 340 to 350 kph quicker than before. He also highlighted the increased complexity of managing energy from the battery and power unit. “It’s more complicated and different, so it takes time to figure out the best way to optimize the car’s performance. That’s exactly what these test days are for.”
Adding a personal touch to the day, Norris shared his excitement about driving under his new No. 1 racing number, a privilege earned by winning last year’s championship. With this promising start, McLaren looks ready to defend their supremacy in the highly competitive world of Formula 1.