McLaren’s Lando Norris continues to ease into life as reigning world champion, but he knows the hunters are circling.
And right at the front of the pack? George Russell, who Norris says is “giddy” at the thought
of taking his crown.
With the 2026 season fast approaching, F1’s new machines are still holding their cards close. But Mercedes have already raised eyebrows.
Amid all the noise around their much-discussed “compression trick,” Russell’s Silver Arrow clocked up serious mileage during a Barcelona shakedown, hinting at early reliability — and the potential to challenge back-to-back Constructors’ Champion McLaren.
Another interesting personal equation to keep in mind is this: Norris and Russell have been on parallel tracks since entering F1 together in 2019 — Norris with McLaren, Russell grinding it out at Williams.
For years, Russell played catch-up. Now, with Mercedes momentum and bookmaker backing, the tables might finally be turning.
“I completely agree with the bookmakers” 🗣️
Lando Norris believes George Russell will win the F1 championship very soon 🏆 pic.twitter.com/zSqSYVXv1v
— Sky Sports F1 (@SkySportsF1) February 5, 2026
Speaking at McLaren’s Woking base, Norris revealed some light-hearted off-track rivalry.
“I spoke to Alex and George the other day, mainly because we played padel together,” he smiled.
“But especially George… I think my title’s created more hunger. He’s the bookies’ favourite. He’s a little bit giddy at the minute.”
Norris even joked that Russell was the “massive” favourite and admitted he fully expects his old rival to win a title one day. Maybe even this year.
Russell, for his part, isn’t buying into the hype. At Mercedes’ season launch, he brushed off the favourite tag entirely.
“I don’t really feel anything from it,” he said. “I’ve felt ready to fight for a championship for a long time.”
Talk is almost over. The lights go out in Australia on March 8.
