Lando Norris says McLaren suffer from degradation when they push

That is a huge shift for McLaren, who won both F1 Titles in 2025 with the MCL39 being the class of the field with one of its strengths being tyre management.

But as Norris explained, it seemed McLaren's proper tyre management was due to their pace advantage last year, which meant they weren't pushing the car.

That may not be the case in 2026, as the reigning Champions are facing challenges from rivals as Mercedes are tipped to be favorites.

"Last year we had pace advantage," Norris said. "Going to the races, we could drive slower. At the moment we are a bit off. We have more degradation when we push more.

"Our strength last year will continue to be our strength this season," he went on. "The [2025] car was difficult to understand, but we could have a bad quali and a good Sunday. At the minute we have to improve in most areas.

However, the goal for Norris is clear: defend both his and McLaren's Title, which may prove to be tough to achieve with the regulation reset.

"I'll do my best to defend it [Title], and it is a new season," the 2025 F1 Champion said. "I cannot say it is the same thing again. I feel confident and better than I have ever [been].

"[It's] reassuring to know that I have done it once and that I can do it again," Norris maintained.

When asked if he has any new goals, the McLaren driver responded: "My motivation is not solely success. My motivation to win is not success.

"I love to win, of course. Holding the trophies, etc., some people rely so much upon the enjoyment to stand on the podium and celebrate.

"My motivation is to do well and to improve and to do better," Norris concluded. (Reporting by Agnes Carlier)