Norris wants more battles with Hamilton as F1 champion backs rival's 2026 comeback
Newly crowned world champion Lando Norris says he would "love" to race more against Lewis Hamilton in 2026, backing the seven-time champion to bounce back from a difficult first year at Ferrari. Norris believes the upcoming regulation reset gives everyone, including a struggling Hamilton, a fresh opportunity.
Lando Norris has expressed his desire for more on-track battles with Lewis Hamilton in 2026, with the new world champion backing the sport's most successful driver to recover from a disappointing debut season at Ferrari. Norris, who became the first British champion since Hamilton after clinching the 2025 title, believes the major regulation changes next year provide a clean slate for all drivers.
Why it matters:
Hamilton's first year at Ferrari was statistically the worst of his career, failing to secure a podium for the first time. Norris's public support and desire to race him at the front highlights the respect between generations and underscores the potential for a reshuffled competitive order under the new rules. A resurgent Hamilton battling the new champion would be a major narrative for the sport.
The details:
- In an exclusive interview with Sky Sports News, Norris stated he would "love to race a bit more with Lewis," acknowledging Ferrari's struggles in 2025 were greater than expected.
- He firmly backed Hamilton's ability to recover, calling him "probably the best of all time" and stating, "Everyone knows if anyone can bounce back from difficult years, it's Mr Hamilton."
- Norris views racing against legends like Hamilton, Fernando Alonso, and Max Verstappen as a "privilege," while also noting the challenge from the next generation, including George Russell and Oscar Piastri.
- The 2026 season features a complete technical overhaul of chassis, aerodynamics, and power units, which Norris believes creates an opportunity for every team and driver.
What's next:
The off-season is notably short, with pre-season testing for the new cars beginning in just under seven weeks. Norris plans a brief break with family and friends before returning to training, acknowledging that "people want to come to take my crown, and I want to try to retain it." All eyes will be on whether the new regulations can propel Hamilton and Ferrari back into contention against the reigning champion.