Norris agrees with Verstappen’s view on 2026 F1 vehicles: ‘Not the essence of F1’
Lando Norris mentioned that his remarks regarding Max Verstappen and the new Formula 1 regulations were intended “to see the reaction of everyone,” and he actually aligns with the four-time world champion’s critical perspective on the 2026 vehicles.
Following Verstappen’s comment during the initial week of Bahrain testing, where he likened F1 to “Formula E on steroids” due to the new cars, Norris expressed that he had a “lot of fun” and suggested that Verstappen should retire if he did not share that sentiment.
However, on the second-to-last day of the subsequent test, Norris stated: “I just didn’t want to come out into the media and complain to everyone on the first weekend back.”
“I merely wanted to express that and observe the reactions from everyone. It has been quite an entertaining week, and it certainly prompted many people to comment and share their thoughts.”
Norris further acknowledged that he largely concurs with Verstappen’s views, adding that the cars were “certainly not the purest form of racing.”
“I do agree with essentially every other driver, as I believe they have made their opinions quite clear,” Norris remarked. “I just didn’t want to come out into the media and complain to everyone on the first weekend back. I want to continue enjoying my time and express my feelings.”
“I had fun last week. I’m still enjoying my time out there now. And I think we understand as a championship with the FIA and Formula 1, we’re striving to enhance the car we currently have, because it’s certainly not the purest form of racing, and that is what Formula 1 should represent.”
“Much of the driving is concentrated on simply ensuring the battery operates correctly and less on how you, as a driver, can extract everything from the car.”
Norris also acknowledged that there is “quite a bit” to improve with his McLaren vehicle.
Norris surpassed Verstappen to secure his first drivers’ world championship last season after a tumultuous year filled with various internal uncertainties.
The 26-year-old is brimming with confidence after managing the pressure to seize the title, but he recognized that his team has work ahead to compete with Mercedes, Ferrari, and Red Bull in the upcoming season opener in Melbourne.
<p"Currently, we're a bit behind, so to match the race pace of some of the others, we need to push a bit harder, which leads to more degradation," Norris stated.
“I would love to [win], but I don’t feel a sense of responsibility. In life, I will always strive to defend it and continue, but it’s a new season with numerous new challenges.”
“It’s not as straightforward as just continuing from last year and claiming it’s the same situation again. At this moment, we need to enhance the car significantly if we want to compete more effectively and feel confident for the first race, but I feel assured.”
“I feel better than I ever have. Certainly after winning the championship last year, that has instilled confidence in me, so it’s reassuring to know that I’ve accomplished it once and thus I believe I can do it again.”
“That’s a positive aspect, but it’s a lengthy season, and I will ensure I fulfill my role. Together as a team, we will make certain we provide ourselves with the best opportunity to achieve it again.”
Source: espn.com
