Winner in Hungary, Lando Norris claims to be operating at a higher level than the one that allowed him to win the world title in 2025.
Read more Helmut Marko cools Verstappen’s hopes and makes a worrying prediction
Lando Norris may have secured his first win of the season in Hungary, but the Briton believes his greatest satisfaction lies elsewhere.
The reigning world champion claims to be driving at an even higher level than he showed at the same stage last season, when he won his first world crown.
A statement that could worry his rivals, as McLaren seems to finally regain competitiveness thanks to a significant package of upgrades introduced at the Hungaroring.
“In terms of driving and personal performance, I am really very satisfied. I feel like I am making the most of the car’s potential.”
“I drive better than in 2025”
Despite this confidence, Norris points out a frustrating element: the performance of his car has not allowed him to turn his driving level into consistent results.
However, the Briton believes he has taken a step forward.
“I feel like I am driving better during this first half of the season than at the same time last year, even though I am unfortunately not leading the championship.”
The McLaren driver naturally acknowledges that he would like to have a more competitive car.
“Of course, I would like to have a better car, capable of giving me more opportunities to fight for victory and reward the performances I believe I am delivering. But that’s Formula 1.”
Read more Honda sends a strong message to Fernando Alonso
McLaren regains momentum
Until the Hungarian Grand Prix, the MCL40 had lagged behind Mercedes and Ferrari.
To reverse the trend, McLaren introduced a significant series of upgrades, including a new floor and several aerodynamic modifications.
These innovations immediately paid off with a pole position followed by a commanding victory for Norris, more than fifteen seconds ahead of Max Verstappen.
However, the Briton remains realistic about his team’s situation.
“We are still not at the level we would like to be, nor at last year’s level. We have achieved some good results, but we know that it is still insufficient.”
The battle is far from over
Fifth in the championship with 128 points, Norris is still 91 points behind Kimi Antonelli.
To hope to get back in the race, McLaren will have to continue its development at the same pace.
“We are starting to see the benefits of the work done. Our victory in Hungary is directly linked to the upgrades brought to the car, but we must continue to progress if we want to regularly fight for victories.”
If McLaren confirms the progress seen at the Hungaroring in the upcoming races, Lando Norris’s statements could take on a whole new dimension. The Briton is convinced he is driving better than ever and now hopes to finally have a car capable of turning this renewed confidence into a series of successes.