Lando Norris forecasted to surpass George Russell in the 2026 Formula 1 rankings.

"If he maintains this performance, he will be in second," Steiner remarked. "Just look at how delighted Lando is."

Following a challenging beginning to the season for McLaren, the team from Woking rolled out upgrades that led to consecutive victories for Norris at the Hungarian and Dutch Grands Prix. He subsequently finished fourth at the Italian Grand Prix.

Norris suddenly entered the championship discussion after his two grand prix wins. In an interview with Sky Sports after he announced his contract extension with McLaren through 2030, the 26-year-old reflected on the team’s prospects for the ongoing season.

George Russell, Mercedes

"The team is functioning more effectively than ever before," Norris stated. "I believe they are working in a more efficient and dedicated manner than in recent years. That level was championship-winning caliber. So, it’s not that I doubt our ability to contend for it. 

"I’m confident we have much of what is required in place. There are just specific areas of the car that need enhancement. And I am convinced we can achieve that. It’s always a race against time in Formula 1. However, we demonstrated in the past few weekends that we are capable of winning races, and we have strong momentum.

"I always strive for a bit more, and I want to feel assured that we can upgrade the car sufficiently to confidently say, 'Yes, we can compete for this world championship.'

"Thus, we can certainly compete as a team. We just need to refine certain aspects of the car, and I remain optimistic that we can do that."