Lando Norris Says Ferrari Were Already Title Contenders

Lando Norris believes Ferrari have been genuine Formula 1 title contenders since the beginning of the 2026 season, despite securing their first victory only at round seven in Barcelona.

Lewis Hamilton's victory came after Ferrari introduced a major upgrade package in Spain. However, Norris insisted the Italian squad was already operating at a high level before the new parts arrived, arguing that the upgrades simply enhanced an already competitive package.

The McLaren driver nevertheless maintained that Mercedes still possesses the most complete car on the grid. He pointed to Ferrari's deficit on the straights, suggesting that a combination of power unit performance and aerodynamic drag remains its biggest weakness.

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"I don't think they have made a lot of progress since the beginning of the year. They were one of the best teams the whole season so far. If the engine upgrade works, they can easily become the favourites. But they were already title contenders the whole season," said Norris.

Ferrari is set to introduce an upgraded power unit this weekend in an effort to address its straight-line performance deficit. Norris believes the package could significantly strengthen Ferrari's challenge if it delivers the expected gains.

Should the new engine perform as intended, Norris expects the championship fight to become even closer. In his view, Ferrari is not making a late-season breakthrough but rather unlocking the full potential of a package that has been capable of fighting at the front from the opening round.