Norris shares thoughts on title defence and McLaren's upgrade plans
On the weekend where McLaren’s Lando Norris could lose his title of reigning world champion, his expectations of what McLaren will be able to achieve this weekend are realistic. He outlined that McLaren over the course of the season have been only “a couple of steps” behind the front of the field. A year on from taking the championship lead in Mexico ahead of his title win last season, he also said that “bar maybe two races”, McLaren are “still getting there” when it comes to fighting for championships again.
The McLaren driver made clear that “the car has good potential” and further added that “we’re certainly not miles and miles away” from the likes of Mercedes, Ferrari and Red Bull. Earlier in the season, he became one of four drivers to become multiple race winners in 2026 however since his race wins, McLaren’s pace has slowly tapered off. Looking ahead for the remainder of the season, Norris outlined that improving the car performance has to be centred around so specific areas in “mak[ing] it quicker” as well as “mak[ing] it more consistent through every type of circuit.”
With small upgrade packages due to arrive in Brazil and Vegas, he confirmed that these would “add performance but won’t it [driving] any easier” for either himself or teammate Oscar Piastri. In 2026, the main issue with the challenger put forward by the reigning champions is simply that “it’s just too difficult to drive” according to Norris.
With the championship potentially being decided this weekend, Norris also gave his thoughts on handing the baton over to a new world champion. Speaking about his championship defence, the Briton stated: “I’ve had a pretty horrible defensive title.” However, he also acknowledged that “I’ve done my very best” with two race wins and three pole positions.
Discussing Kimi Antonelli’s championship run so far in 2026, Norris made it clear that “he’s done an incredible job […] in a pretty incredible way.” He further added that “he’s got a very, very talented teammate [George Russell] that he’s beaten through the whole season” to get to his position at the front.
Norris is currently sixth in the Drivers’ championship standings and McLaren are fourth in the Constructors’ championship standings with 355 points. To turn their fortunes around, both driver and team will have to have an excellent weekend at the Mexico City Grand Prix.
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