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Norris says McLaren is three months behind F1 rivals in 2026 season

Formula1.com • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 26, 2026, 8:01 AM

Last updated Jun 26, 2026

Motorsports

Summary

Lando Norris stated that McLaren is three months behind its rivals in the 2026 Formula 1 development race. Despite entering the season as reigning World Champions, McLaren has only reached the podium on occasion due to reliability issues and performance gaps. Norris noted that significant upgrades are necessary, estimating that multiple improvements will be required to close the gap with teams like Mercedes and Ferrari. He plans to test an experimental rear wing in upcoming practice at the Red Bull Ring, as the team aims to enhance its competitiveness moving forward.

Source Links

Formula1.com

By the Numbers

•McLaren has yet to win a race this season.
•Norris finished third in Barcelona, benefiting from a late retirement.
•The team is third in the Constructors' standings with 141 points.
•Norris is testing a new rear wing in practice at the Red Bull Ring.
•McLaren is striving to close the performance gap within the next few months.

What they're saying

"
Lando Norris has expressed his view that McLaren are “three months behind” their rivals in the 2026 development race, highlighting the “huge effort” that will be required to get back to winning ways.
— Formula1.comby Formula 1

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McLaren F1 Motorsports