Suzuka, Japan – Reigning Formula 1 World Champion Lando Norris remains optimistic about defending his title, despite a challenging start to the 2026 season. Ahead of the Japanese Grand Prix, Norris expressed confidence in his team, McLaren, and their ability to return to the front of the grid.
Norris, who secured the World Championship last year in a thrilling season that saw him edge out Max Verstappen by just two points, acknowledges the current difficulties but believes McLaren possesses the potential to reclaim its winning ways. The team, fresh off consecutive Constructor’s Championships in 2024 and 2025, is facing early-season hurdles with its modern 2026-spec car.
“We’re first focused on getting back on the podium, and then winning races again,” Norris stated Thursday, demonstrating his characteristic calm demeanor. “I feel fine about the team, and I think we’re capable of having the best car this year.”
The early stages of the 2026 season have been particularly difficult for the McLaren driver. After two races – in Melbourne, Australia, and Shanghai, China – Norris finds himself 36 points behind current championship leader George Russell of Mercedes. Adding to the frustration, neither Norris nor his teammate, Oscar Piastri, were able to participate in the Chinese Grand Prix due to “technical problems” with their new hybrid engines – a combination of electric and thermal power.
The 2026 McLaren car, like all Formula 1 vehicles this season, is built to a completely new set of technical regulations concerning both engines, and chassis. Despite the initial setbacks, Norris insists the car has “a lot of potential.”
McLaren team principal Andrea Stella publicly apologized for the issues experienced in China on March 15th, further highlighting the team’s commitment to resolving the problems. Norris acknowledged the setbacks were “painful,” but emphasized the team’s dedication to understanding and rectifying the issues to prevent recurrence.
The Japanese Grand Prix, held at the iconic Suzuka Circuit, holds a special place in the hearts of many F1 drivers. Celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, Suzuka is renowned for its demanding layout, featuring a mix of long straights and challenging corners. It’s a track that rewards precision and bravery, and is a favorite among the drivers.
However, Norris recently cautioned that the current generation of Formula 1 cars might not deliver the same level of qualifying spectacle as previous years. According to Crash.net, Norris believes energy-saving requirements, designed to maximize speed on the straights, could limit grip in key sections of the track, such as the Esses and Degna corners. He anticipates some corners, like Spoon, will be approached at even higher speeds, potentially flat-out, due to the new regulations.
“It’s never ruined, I don’t think you can ever ruin this track,” Norris said. “Will it be as spectacular? I don’t think so, it will not be. But it’s still an incredible track to drive.”
The FIA recently implemented a last-minute change to reduce energy harvesting from 9MJ to 8MJ per lap, aiming to mitigate excessive clipping at the end of straights. Norris acknowledged this adjustment, stating, “It’s different. I need to go out and drive with it first.”
Despite the challenges, Norris remains focused on the task at hand. He and McLaren are determined to overcome the early-season hurdles and mount a strong challenge for both podium finishes and race wins. The team’s ability to adapt and innovate will be crucial as the season progresses.
The Formula 1 Japanese Grand Prix at Suzuka is set to be a pivotal moment for McLaren and Lando Norris. The race will not only test the team’s technical capabilities but also their resilience and determination in the face of adversity. Fans around the world will be watching closely to see if McLaren can turn the tide and begin their pursuit of a third consecutive World Championship.
Norris’s comments come after a strong showing in qualifying, where he secured a front-row start alongside polesitter Max Verstappen, as reported by Formula1.com. He expressed excitement for Sunday’s race, indicating he pushed the car to its absolute limit during qualifying.
The race at Suzuka is scheduled to begin on Sunday, March 28th at 3:00 PM JST (7:00 AM GMT / 3:00 AM EDT). Fans can follow the action live on official Formula 1 broadcasters worldwide.
