Lando Norris describes 'surreal' feeling of driving with number 1 in Barcelona test
Reigning F1 world champion Lando Norris called driving his McLaren with the number 1 on it for the first time a "surreal" experience during pre-season testing in Barcelona. The first day focused on system checks and data gathering with the newly-built MCL40.
Defending world champion Lando Norris completed his first laps in the new McLaren MCL40 at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, describing the sight of the number 1 on his car as a "pretty surreal" and "good feeling" that underscores his new status at the pinnacle of the sport.
Why it matters:
The number 1 is a powerful symbol in Formula 1, reserved exclusively for the reigning world champion. For Norris and McLaren, its presence on the car is a tangible reward for their 2025 title success and a constant visual reminder of the target now on their backs as they begin their title defense. The pre-season test is the first real-world benchmark for their new package under the pressure of champion expectations.
The details:
- Norris and the team assembled the MCL40 for the very first time on the morning of the test, making the initial shakedown a critical moment to verify all systems.
- The British driver emphasized that the first day was primarily about functionality checks, data gathering, and ensuring everything operated as designed, calling it a "productive" and "decent" day.
- Norris admitted to still finding the champion status "unbelievable" and "crazy," especially when seeing the number 1 on his overalls, car, and at the top of the timing screens.
- With characteristic humor, he noted one immediate perk: "I'm at the top of the timing screens before we've even gone out because I'm the lowest number now."
What's next:
The focus immediately shifts to building on the initial data. McLaren's pre-season testing program continues in Barcelona, with teammate Oscar Piastri scheduled to get his first taste of the new MCL40. The team will analyze the data from Norris's runs to refine the car's setup and reliability ahead of the season opener, all while carrying the symbolic weight of the number 1.