McLaren driver Lando Norris has warned that Formula 1 must avoid producing “fake” or “scripted” racing when new regulations are introduced in 2026.
Norris, who recently tested the new active aero concept in the simulator, stressed that he values straightforward, driver-focused racing and is wary of the extra complexity involved.
From 2026, the current DRS system will be replaced by an active aerodynamic setup featuring movable front and rear wings. Drivers will be able to switch between two modes: a high-downforce ‘Z-mode’ for corners and a low-drag ‘X-mode’ for straights, which provides extra speed by reducing aerodynamic resistance.
Unlike today’s DRS, the new system can be used on any straight longer than around three seconds, allowing more tactical flexibility but also adding complexity to race strategy.
Alex Albon recently warned that smarter drivers could “abuse the system” under the revised 2026 regulations.
His comments followed Charles Leclerc’s candid critique of the new rules, where the Ferrari driver admitted he was “not a fan” of how the car might feel.
Norris echoed a similar sentiment ahead of last month’s Belgian Grand Prix, as he explained his views on the new era of F1.
“It’s different – it’s good and different in different ways,” he told media including Motorsport Week.
“I think Formula 1, in terms of the pinnacle of motorsport and speed and everything, you don’t get much better than what we’ve had this year and the last few years.
“When we’re going to go into next year, the gaps will be bigger. It doesn’t mean racing is going to be worse. I think there are many things that are going to make racing better.
“I just don’t want to go too artificial with things – I don’t want things to be too fake, too scripted – I don’t think that’s correct. That’s not motorsport and that’s not what I like.”
Norris calls for simplicity and authenticity with 2026 F1 cars
Norris acknowledged the challenges and compromises the 2026 regulations will bring, pointing out that the cars will be slower and less spectacular in certain areas.
“Some things will be better – the cars are going to be even slower and straighter in the corners and things like that,” he added.
“They’re not going to look as spectacular in terms of performing laps. They’re not going to look as quick because at the end of straights you’re losing speed, you’re decelerating.
“It’s not going to look as cool or as special. I think there are still things I would like more from the car.
“Just more battery and things like that. We could just have some more normality in it.
“I think it’s a new challenge for everyone. We should all look forward to the challenge of a new car and new regulations.
“That’s also what makes Formula 1 exciting at times. It’s a fresh start for everyone. We look forward to it as a team. I think it’s something we relish.
“As a driver, we want cars that we can just drive.”
Norris summed up his feelings on the evolving technology and the new regulations with a plea for simplicity and authenticity in racing.
“Honestly, I don’t want to do all this DRS nonsense – I just want to drive the car,” he said. “I just want to upshift, downshift, and that’s it. That’s what I enjoy. You see, you can push it the most and you can be the most on the limit.
He concluded: “Some things I love. Some things I think will be better. Over the next two or three years, I think everyone will close back up.
“You always get bigger gaps in regulation changes. It’s a new challenge and I look forward to that. I think there are still more things that could be better.”
READ MORE – Lando Norris ‘not giving myself the best opportunities’ in 2025 F1 championship battle
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