Lando Norris Reveals McLaren MCL40 At Barcelona F1 Test

Last Updated:January 29, 2026, 10:50 IST

Lando Norris drove McLaren's new MCL40 for 62 laps in Barcelona, marking McLaren's first Formula One test of the season amid new technical regulations and high anticipation.

Reigning F1 World Champion Lando Norris (AP)

World champion Lando Norris returned to the track on Wednesday as McLaren made their first appearance at Formula One’s private testing sessions in Barcelona.

Norris completed 62 laps in McLaren’s new MCL40 car under clear and dry conditions. The twice reigning F1 constructors’ champions had missed the first two days of testing earlier this week.

“It was just nice to be back, nice to see the number one on my car. Pretty cool, pretty surreal," Norris remarked.

“This was the first time everyone saw the car in one piece – it hadn’t been fully assembled until this morning. It’s incredible to see it all come together."

After Tuesday’s rain-affected session, which saw only Red Bull and Ferrari venture out, six teams took advantage of improved weather on Wednesday. Alpine, Audi, Haas, McLaren, Mercedes, and Racing Bulls all took to the circuit.

With new technical regulations set to take effect for the upcoming season, teams are focusing on the reliability of their cars rather than performance this week.

“It’s pretty different," Norris commented. “It’s a bit more of a challenge, which is a good thing.

“Today was really just about understanding the whole car and how it works. It was a productive day.

“It’s still going to take a while. We’re just trying to gather as much information as possible in every condition."

Despite an unusually short winter break, Norris said he feels ready for the season ahead.

“I think I’m still even now trying to just accept it and realise that it’s happened," said Norris, who held off Max Verstappen and McLaren team-mate Oscar Piastri to clinch the title in the final race last season.

“It gives me good confidence coming into this season. But it’s such a big challenge with all the regulations and changes this year, but I feel good."

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