As the echoes of his championship victory in Abu Dhabi faded less than two months ago, Lando Norris finds himself approaching the new Formula 1 season with a newfound sense of calm. The McLaren driver, who ended his team’s 17-year wait for a drivers’ title, acknowledges the shift in dynamic as he prepares to defend his crown, but insists his hunger for success remains undiminished. , Norris spoke openly about the unique position he now occupies, one where the pressure of chasing a dream has been replaced by the responsibility of maintaining a hard-won status.
Despite achieving what he describes as a “life goal,” Norris is not resting on his laurels. “My motivation to win is exactly the same,” he stated, emphasizing that the thrill of competition hasn’t diminished. He recognizes that retaining the championship will be a significant challenge, particularly with Mercedes widely tipped to be strong contenders in the new era of chassis and power-unit regulations. Currently, bookmakers favor George Russell to win the 2026 championship, a fact Norris acknowledges with a playful tone, labeling his long-time friend and rival as the “massive favourite.”
Norris’s journey to the championship wasn’t without its intensity. He secured the title after a fierce battle with teammate Oscar Piastri and Red Bull’s Max Verstappen, ultimately prevailing by a mere two points. This hard-fought victory has instilled in him a confidence that transcends the pressure of expectation. “I still have many more years in Formula One and I will still try and get as many more championships as possible,” he said. “If I never do, I’m so happy. If I don’t achieve something again, I always have something that I’m very proud about.”
The McLaren driver’s approach to racing has often been contrasted with the more ruthless determination of drivers like Verstappen. Norris acknowledges this difference, stating he has a “different mentality” and a “different approach.” He doesn’t necessarily aspire to emulate the unwavering, single-minded focus of his rivals, preferring to stay true to his own values. He playfully suggested that others should decide whether his approach is “good or bad.”
The reality of being a world champion didn’t fully sink in for Norris until he saw the number 1 emblazoned on his McLaren during the Barcelona shakedown last week. He joked that if he ever appears less than enthusiastic, he should be reminded of this achievement. This visual confirmation, coupled with the recognition from fellow drivers like Alex Albon and George Russell, has underscored the change in his status within the paddock.
Norris noted a palpable shift in the dynamic with Russell, observing that his rival’s current “giddiness” stems from being the pre-season favorite. He also highlighted his own increased focus on preparation, returning to training earlier than in previous years. This dedication reflects a desire to maintain his competitive edge and adapt to the significant regulation changes that define the 2026 season.
The new regulations, which introduce sustainable fuels and a 50-50 split between internal combustion and electrical power, are expected to create more unpredictable racing. Norris anticipates that the strategic deployment of the “boost button” will be crucial, allowing drivers to influence positioning and create overtaking opportunities. He predicts this will lead to “more chaotic racing,” a prospect he views positively.
While acknowledging the challenges ahead, Norris remains optimistic about McLaren’s ability to defend its title. The team believes the personnel who drove them to success in 2025 are capable of replicating that performance despite the regulatory overhaul. The mental fortitude Norris demonstrated after a difficult race in Zandvoort last year, where a potential derailment of his championship bid was averted, will be vital as he adapts to the new demands of the season.
Norris’s success has allowed him to reflect on the sacrifices and singular focus required to achieve his lifelong dream. He now feels more relaxed and open to sharing his success with friends and family, potentially allowing them greater access to races and events. This newfound perspective, coupled with his unwavering determination, positions him as a formidable competitor as he embarks on his title defense. He looks to the achievements of champions like Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton, recognizing the difficulty in claiming multiple championships, and feels justified in his approach after last year’s triumph.
As the season approaches, Norris’s focus remains firmly on the track. He understands that the new regulations will demand adaptability and strategic acumen, and he is prepared to embrace the challenges that lie ahead. The 2026 Formula 1 season promises to be a thrilling contest, and Lando Norris is determined to remain at the forefront of the action.
