The introduction of the 2026 Formula 1 regulations pushed drivers to their mental limits during the first test session at the Bahrain International Circuit. The extensive changes to the cars demanded considerable adaptation, leaving many competitors physically and mentally drained after the intense three-day evaluation. Lando Norris, driving the McLaren MCL40, was among those navigating these fresh challenges while approaching the process with a positive mindset.
Opinions about the new cars varied among drivers; Max Verstappen openly criticized the performance, likening it to “Formula E on steroids,” whereas Norris expressed enthusiasm despite the difficulty. Other participants, such as Liam Lawson, echoed the sentiment that acclimating to this era of Formula 1 vehicles proved challenging but crucial.
Lando Norris Describes the Learning Curve as Both Exhausting and Rewarding
Nelson Valkenburg of ViaPlay’s Nailing the Apex shared insights from his interaction with Norris after the second day of testing. Valkenburg noted that Norris appeared “mentally spent” after a full day behind the wheel but emphasized that the McLaren driver was enjoying the steep learning curve.
By the end of the session, Norris completed 207 laps and ranked sixth in the timesheets. Valkenburg quoted,
“Look at the interview of Lando Norris after his full day on Thursday, he looked mentally spent, he was so tired. But he also told me that he enjoyed the process.”
Because he felt like he was back at school, and if you embrace it you will do fine this year, if you fight it, that is a different matter.
— Nelson Valkenburg, Motorsport Commentator
McLaren’s Position After the Bahrain Test: Competitive but Behind Key Rivals
Following their 2025 championship victory with Norris, McLaren entered 2026 with high expectations. However, the Bahrain test results positioned them fourth on the team leaderboard, trailing Ferrari, Mercedes, and Red Bull. Ted Kravitz remarked that McLaren currently stands as the “fourth-best team on the grid” after the initial test days, reflecting a slower start than anticipated for the defending champions.
The team still has three additional days of running scheduled at the Bahrain circuit ahead of the upcoming season opener, hoping to close the gap and improve reliability and pace.
Ongoing Adaptation Signals a Crucial Early Phase for All Drivers
The 2026 testing period underlines the significant mental and physical effort required by drivers to acclimate to the innovations in car design and regulations. For Lando Norris and his McLaren teammates, navigating this transitional phase with resilience could influence their competitiveness throughout the season. The feedback and learning gathered at Bahrain will likely prove vital as the field prepares for the first race weekend.
