"We're just a step behind" - what McLaren is trying to solve with its final 2026 upgrades
"To get the car to be quick, we just have to try so hard to be perfect, and you cannot be perfect," said Lando Norris after practice for the Formula 1 United States Grand Prix in Austin. "We're just a step behind." Two mid-season wins for Norris now appear to be a 'purple patch' rather than harbingers of a competitive renaissance for McLaren after a troubled start to the 2026 season. At the ...…
McLaren aims to address its shortcomings with final 2026 upgrades heading into the US Grand Prix. After a challenging start to the season, the team's focus has been on perfecting the MCL40's quick corners, straightline speed, and slow corners. Raceday at Austin, Lando Norris shared his thoughts on the car's state, saying, "We just have to try so hard to be perfect, and you cannot be perfect."
The updates introduced at the US GP include revised front-end geometry and reprofiled diffuser furniture, with more enhancements planned for Brazil and Las Vegas. Team principal Andrea Stella emphasized that the initial step in Baku was foundational, setting the stage for further improvements throughout the season.
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