F1 pre-season testing: Lando Norris admits new 2026 cars 'not purest form of racing'
BBC World
February 19, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Lando Norris, the McLaren driver, has sparked a debate about the future of Formula 1 racing by admitting that the new 2026 cars are "not the purest form of racing." During pre-season testing, Norris shared his thoughts on the hybrid powertrains, which require significant energy management from drivers. While he found the cars "a lot of fun," he acknowledged that they prioritize efficiency over the raw driving experience cherished by many fans. This sentiment aligns with Max Verstappen's earlier criticisms, highlighting how the new regulations have shifted focus away from pure driving dynamics to managing battery and power systems.
The new cars' hybrid powertrains demand intricate energy management strategies, such as adjusting speed on straights or coasting through corners to conserve energy for qualifying laps. This approach feels counterintuitive to drivers, who are now tasked with balancing performance and efficiency in ways not seen before. Verstappen's comments reflect a broader consensus among drivers that the cars have diluted the essence of racing. However, Norris emphasized his enjoyment of the sport and the ongoing efforts by FIA and Formula 1 to improve the cars for future
Verticals
worldpolitics
Originally published on BBC World on 2/19/2026