Norris describes 'surreal' feeling of running No.1 on McLaren in first 2026 test
Reigning champion Lando Norris called the sight of the number '1' on his McLaren "surreal" after his first test run in the 2026 car. The initial shakedown in Barcelona focused on understanding the radically different machine, which Norris noted has slower cornering but faster acceleration, as the team begins its title defense.
Lando Norris completed his first laps as the reigning Formula 1 World Champion during pre-season testing in Barcelona, describing the sight of the number '1' on his McLaren as "surreal" and "crazy." The Briton focused on understanding McLaren's radically different 2026 car, noting its slower cornering but quicker acceleration, as the team began its title defense with a reliable shakedown.
Why it matters:
The first track appearance with the champion's number is a powerful symbolic moment, cementing a driver's new status. For Norris and McLaren, it also marks the critical start of adapting to F1's sweeping 2026 technical regulations, where early reliability and understanding are more valuable than outright pace.
The details:
- Emotional Debut: Norris, swapping his usual #4 for the #1, called the experience unbelievable, noting it was the first time he saw it on his suit, car, and timing screens.
- Technical First Impressions: The new MCL40 is a clean-sheet design under the 2026 rules. Norris reported it feels "pretty different," with slower cornering speeds but quicker acceleration to 340-350 km/h compared to the 2025 car.
- New Systems to Learn: He emphasized the need to understand the more complicated power unit and battery energy management, stating that "whenever something's different, it always takes a bit of time."
- Team's Initial Verdict: McLaren Chief Designer Rob Marshall reported a positive first day with no major issues, describing the session as a shakedown focused on reliability and system checks in cold, unrepresentative conditions.
What's next:
McLaren will continue its testing program in Barcelona, with Oscar Piastri taking over driving duties. The team will use the remaining track time to expand the car's operating envelope before focusing on performance setup for the season opener in Bahrain.