McLaren reports on Norris straight-line speed issue

Autosport and Motorsport.com reported McLaren is investigating Lando Norris’ straight-line speed deficit and a wider performance dip after Bahrain at Sepang.

McLaren is reported to have identified part of the reason for Lando Norris’ straight-line speed deficit after Bahrain Grand Prix qualifying. Autosport reported that team principal Andrea Stella addressed a recurring issue affecting Norris for the second straight weekend, but the picture remains unconfirmed because the team is still assessing it.

Separate reports pointed to a broader performance question around McLaren’s recent form. Motorsport.com reported that Stella was trying to understand the team’s drop in competitiveness after the relocated Bahrain Grand Prix at Sepang in Malaysia, and also said McLaren had been searching for answers after a difficult Sepang weekend that followed a tougher event in Baku.

Norris was fifth in the 2026 drivers’ championship on 188 points at that stage of the season. The McLaren driver had made 161 Formula 1 starts, with 11 wins and 16 pole positions, which adds context to the attention on a problem reported across consecutive weekends.