P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Norris: McLaren will have to copy rivals
In 2026, McLaren may need to imitate their F1 competitors with the introduction of the brand new cars.
The upcoming season will bring a clean slate for F1 teams due to the revamped regulations, involving a total reconstruction of chassis and power unit rules.
Despite aiming to extend their dominance from 2025, McLaren, like all other teams, had to develop entirely new car concepts for the year.
Ferrari’s team principal, Fred Vasseur, suggests that 2026 will focus on continual development rather than immediate speed.
Lando Norris anticipates a challenging year under the new regulations, acknowledging McLaren’s need to study rival designs for advancement.
The 2026 F1 season gets underway on March 6 at the Albert Park Circuit in Melbourne, starting with FP1 at 12:30pm local time and the race on Sunday at 3pm local time. Pre-season tests are set in Bahrain from February 11-13 and February 18-20.
Hamilton is set to reunite with Ferrari in 2026, marking a significant headline for the upcoming season.
