Bahrain – Reigning Formula One World Champion Lando Norris has voiced concerns about the McLaren MCL40’s tyre management capabilities as pre-season testing gets underway, while the sport grapples with the implications of significant regulation changes for the 2026 season. The new rules, designed to simplify power units and increase the share of energy generated by electric motors, have already presented challenges for teams, including a dramatic incident during testing involving Red Bull Racing’s Max Verstappen.
Norris, driving for McLaren in his eighth season and first as champion, believes the MCL40 currently lacks the tyre performance advantage that characterized last year’s successful MCL39. The team’s ability to preserve tyre life, particularly in the closing stages of races, proved crucial to their strong performance in 2025. The shift in regulations, aiming for smaller, lighter cars and increased reliance on sustainable fuels, appears to have altered that dynamic.
Speaking during a press conference at the Bahrain International Circuit, Norris explained, “Last year we too had just a pace advantage, so going into the race it was always, we could almost drive slower, things worked better, and then we could drive quicker.” He continued, “At the minute we’re a little bit off, so to match the race pace of some of the others, we have to push a bit more, and then we have more degradation. So not entirely, but I’m sure We find some things.”
The McLaren driver remains optimistic, however, stating, “I know there are some things that our strengths last year that will continue to be our strengths this season.” He acknowledged the team is actively working to address the issues, adding, “The car worked particularly well last year. It was difficult to understand it worked well. And it’s still just very, very early days, but it’s currently moving. The team are working hard on every area. That includes race pace, tyre cooling, all of those things. At the minute, we’re just kind of improving in most areas.”
The 2026 season marks a significant overhaul of Formula One’s technical regulations. According to McLaren’s official website, the changes aim to reduce downforce and simplify the power unit, increasing the contribution of electric motors. Mercedes-AMG HPP, McLaren’s engine supplier since 2021, faced scrutiny over the winter break regarding potential loopholes in the power unit regulations.
The opening days of testing in Bahrain were also marred by a dramatic incident involving Red Bull Racing’s Max Verstappen. While details remain limited, reports indicate a fire erupted on Verstappen’s car, forcing a halt to the session. No injuries were reported, but the incident underscored the challenges teams face adapting to the new regulations and ensuring the reliability of their 2026 challengers.
The MCL40, designed under the direction of Rob Marshall, features a carbon fibre composite chassis and a Mercedes-AMG F1 M17 E Performance 1.6L turbocharged engine. The car utilizes an 8-speed + 1 reverse sequential seamless semi-automatic transmission and Pirelli P Zero tires for dry conditions, and Pirelli Cinturato tires for wet conditions. Norris will be partnered by Oscar Piastri, in his fourth season with the team.
McLaren launched the MCL40 with a livery continuing the iconic papaya colour palette alongside anthracite and teal accents, a tradition following their 2025 Constructors’ and Drivers’ World Championship victories. The team’s official launch event highlighted the focus on sustainable fuels and increased battery power as key elements of the new era of Formula One.
As teams continue to refine their cars during pre-season testing, the focus will be on maximizing performance within the constraints of the new regulations. The Bahrain tests are crucial for gathering data and identifying areas for improvement before the season-opening race. The performance of the MCL40, and its ability to overcome the tyre management challenges identified by Norris, will be a key indicator of McLaren’s competitiveness in the 2026 championship battle.
The next major checkpoint will be the completion of pre-season testing in Bahrain, followed by the first race of the 2026 Formula One World Championship. Teams will be closely analyzing data and implementing upgrades in an effort to gain an edge as the season unfolds. The early stages of the championship will be critical in establishing a pecking order and setting the stage for a potentially thrilling title fight.
What are your thoughts on the new regulations? Share your predictions for the 2026 season in the comments below!
