Norris embraces 'surreal' champion feeling in first 2026 McLaren run

Lando Norris described the experience of driving with the #1 on his McLaren as "surreal" during his first outing in the team's 2026 MCL40 at the Barcelona shakedown. The reigning world champion completed 77 laps on a cold Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, focusing on initial systems checks and understanding the radically different new car, which he noted feels slower in corners but quicker on the straights.

Why it matters:

For the first time since his title win, Norris is experiencing the tangible symbols of being champion—the #1 on his car, suit, and timing screens. His initial feedback on the new-generation car provides the first real-world glimpse into how the 2026 technical regulations, with their lower downforce and greater electrical emphasis, are changing the driving experience for the sport's top competitors.

The details:

• Norris took to the track in a McLaren MCL40 wearing a temporary black and grey testing livery, having swapped his usual #4 for the champion's #1.
• He expressed that seeing the number was "unbelievable" and "crazy," marking a significant personal milestone.
• His running was part of a delayed start to pre-season testing for McLaren, which began on the third of five available shakedown days at the Spanish circuit.
• The day's focus was purely on discovery. Norris stated it was about "understanding just how it works really, going through the manual of everything" and ensuring systems were operational.
• His initial technical feedback highlighted a distinct shift in car behavior:
  • Cornering Speed: The car feels "a step slower" through corners compared to its 2025 title-winning predecessor.
  • Straightline Speed: Acceleration and top speed feel quicker, reaching 340-350 km/h notably faster.
  • New Complexity: Managing the battery and power unit presents a new, more complicated challenge for drivers to optimize.
• McLaren Chief Designer Rob Marshall reported a positive first day, stating the car ran well with "no nasties" or major issues, treating the session as a reliability shakedown in unrepresentative cold conditions.

What's next:

McLaren's testing program continues with Oscar Piastri scheduled to take over driving duties on Thursday. The team will use the remaining days in Barcelona to build reliability and complete systems checks before shifting focus to performance tuning in the warmer, more representative conditions of the upcoming Bahrain test. Norris's early adaptation to both his champion status and the new car's characteristics will be a key storyline to watch as pre-season preparations intensify.