Lando Norris has extended his stay with McLaren by signing a new deal that would run well into the decade. He also expressed heightened confidence in clinching the F1 world champion title with the revitalised team. Despite earlier speculations linking him to Red Bull, Norris has now secured his future with McLaren through the next era of F1 regulations starting in 2026.

During an exclusive interview at McLaren’s Woking base, Norris admitted engaging in some talks with other teams but found it quite easy to prolong his McLaren tenure, especially following the team’s impressive mid-season performance surge last year. 

The 24-year-old emphasized the crucial factors influencing his decision: enjoyment with the team and the belief that McLaren will contribute to achieving his goal of becoming an F1 world champion. 

Reflecting on the trajectory McLaren took in the latter part of the previous season, Norris expressed optimism that the positive momentum would persist, aiding the team in its pursuit of a world championship. McLaren’s substantial climb up F1’s order in the second half of 2023, fueled by a significant mid-season car upgrade, positioned them as the closest competitor to Red Bull over the final 14 races.

With Norris’ extended deal, McLaren now boasts a long-term lineup, securing the services of the Briton and 22-year-old teammate Oscar Piastri until at least the end of 2026. The team, equipped with a new wind tunnel and simulator and bolstered by notable technical hires, looks poised for success in the upcoming seasons, aligning with F1’s big engine rules overhaul in 2026.

The exact duration of Norris’s new contract is not known, but we can expect it to last till 2027 at least, given that his current contract is supposed to expire at the end of 2025. 

Zak Brown, McLaren’s CEO, lauded Norris’s commitment and contributions, highlighting the pivotal role he played in the team’s turnaround last season. Anticipating further progress and podium successes, Brown expressed excitement about the continued journey ahead with Norris at the helm.

Leon Osamor