Reigning Formula 1 world champion Lando Norris has signed a contract extension with McLaren that keeps him with the team until at least the end of 2030. With over a year remaining on his previous deal, discussions about an extension began to develop in recent months. Norris admitted there were approaches from elsewhere on the grid, but he never seriously considered leaving the team that nurtured his career.
"There was some interest from elsewhere," Norris told BBC Sport. "But I don't want to go anywhere. I don't want to be with another team. I don't want to spend time with other people. That's why it really was probably one of the easiest decisions I've made since being in Formula 1." The 26-year-old added that contract talks only gradually became part of the conversation during the season, particularly over the last four months, albeit loosely in the background.
Norris's relationship with McLaren dates back to 2017 when he joined the team's junior program before making his F1 debut in 2019. That period has included some of McLaren's most difficult seasons and its eventual return to the front of the grid. After years of rebuilding, McLaren won consecutive constructors' championships in 2024 and 2025, with Norris claiming his first drivers' title last season. He said going through those struggles before enjoying success strengthened his attachment to the team.
"The fact I stuck it through with them and then we went on to obviously have success certainly makes me feel like I don't want to... they didn't give up on me and I didn't give up on them," Norris explained. "That just creates a very strong bond between everyone that works here. I want to believe that bond stays as strong as it is now 'til I do retire in my career at Formula 1." He added that despite a tough start to the 2026 season, he believes the team is in the best place ever and can fight through any circumstances together.
McLaren endured a difficult start under the new regulations in 2026, off the pace of leading rivals while understanding its MCL40. However, competitiveness has improved significantly in recent rounds, with upgrades helping Norris take consecutive victories in Hungary and the Netherlands, bringing him within 83 points of championship leader Kimi Antonelli. Norris said the early struggles reinforced his commitment rather than weakening it.
"This beginning of the year is the perfect example of what doesn't make me turn my head the other way," Norris said. "In fact, it's more the opposite. It makes me want to stick with the people that I am with because I believe we can fight back through most circumstances and all circumstances. And I enjoy the fight in some ways just as much." With this new deal, McLaren secures its future with its star driver, providing long-term stability amid fierce F1 competition.
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