How Lando Norris Improves in F1 through a Hypercar Test

“The level of detail that they go into is quite astonishing,” Norris remarked. “They have, in certain cases, much broader options to adjust the car than what we’re permitted in Formula 1.

“As much as one might believe Formula 1 is ‘you can do whatever you want’, it’s not entirely true. When it comes to modifying the components and configuring the car itself, it’s actually much more constrained than what you can achieve with the Hypercar, especially regarding electronics and various other elements.

“So it’s pretty fascinating to see what is possible. It resembles the older days of Formula 1, when there was more freedom in what could be done, which is a positive aspect.

“Naturally, it’s a completely different vehicle, quite heavy, so adjusting to that is essential; there’s definitely less downforce, yet it still feels like a speedy car, which is thrilling.”

For comparison, Peugeot’s Malthe Jakobsen secured pole position in 2m00.653s during this year’s Spa-Francorchamps 6 Hours, while F1’s 2026 benchmark was Kimi Antonelli’s 1m44.361s and Rafael Camara led F2 qualifying in 1m56.306s.

Norris was accompanied at the Portuguese circuit by two of McLaren’s 2027 drivers, Mikkel Jensen and Laurens Vanthoor, providing the Brit with additional opportunities for learning.

“It was primarily for me to experience something new and also to gain knowledge,” he stated. “Everything I do, even when driving other cars, is always aimed at learning – understanding different techniques, absorbing insights from the other drivers I encountered there, and seeing what I can integrate to enhance my performance this weekend.

“So it’s consistently a valuable opportunity, especially remaining within the McLaren family. It aids my learning process and sharpens my focus for my main role, which is Formula 1.”

Norris emphasized this point regarding the 2027 Le Mans 24 Hours, noting that the event doesn’t overlap with the F1 calendar next year — only the Test Day does.

Lando Norris, McLaren

“It’s not something I’ve been contemplating at all,” he asserted. “My entire concentration remains on F1, and it always will. I’ll never compromise my commitments in Formula 1 for anything else.

“If there’s a possibility that things could align, maybe, but I have no idea if that’s next year, the year after, three years, or four years down the line. I truly have no clue. Again, it’s not something I’ve been considering at all, but it is something I would like to pursue in the future.”