Lando Norris is heading into the 2026 Formula 1 season with high confidence after winning his first drivers’ championship last year, McLaren CEO Zak Brown said.
Speaking at McLaren’s car launch ahead of the second pre-season test in Bahrain, Brown described Norris as “highly motivated” and aiming for multiple titles.
“Some drivers say, ‘I’ve won it and now I’m done,'” Brown said. “Then you have drivers like Hamilton, Verstappen, and Schumacher who want to win again. Lando’s confidence is very high – higher than before.”
Brown highlighted that team-mate Oscar Piastri will again be a strong contender. “It’s our job to give both Lando and Oscar the equipment to fight for the championship,” he added, confirming the drivers will be free to race.
Despite McLaren’s two consecutive constructors’ titles, Brown acknowledged Mercedes’ early advantage after engine developments. He dismissed concerns over regulation loopholes, saying all Mercedes-powered engines are fully compliant.
Norris can become only the second Briton to defend a world title, joining Hamilton and other multiple British champions such as Jim Clark, Graham Hill, and Jackie Stewart.
The second pre-season test starts in Bahrain on Wednesday, with three more days ahead of the Australian Grand Prix opener from March 6-8.
