Lando Norris highlights McLaren 'focus' over key F1 concern

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Lando Norris has asserted McLaren is all too aware of the danger that exists in striking a balance between the ongoing season and the development of next year's car. The Woking-based squad has enjoyed a successful start to the current campaign, winning five of the opening six races. It is now the favourite to take both the drivers' and constructors' championships, having last secured double title success in 1998. McLaren endured a long period of unsuccessful years in the turbo-hybrid era before making a step forward midway through the 2023 campaign. Having successfully built on the upswing in form, Norris praised the current atmosphere inside the team. "It's great," the Briton told media, including RacingNews365 . "Obviously, there's a good atmosphere because it's the best start to a season McLaren have had for many, many years. "For a lot of people back at MTC, it's a dream start – we're winning races. That's what we're here to do and to achieve. "To lead both championships is our goal. It's a great atmosphere, but the main thing is everyone's still working together very well." McLaren already focusing on 2026 F1 car However, teams are already looking ahead to the 2026 season when a major regulation overhaul threatens to shake up the pecking order and punish those who commit too late to the development of the car. As McLaren seeks to retain its advantage in the sport's new era, Norris said there is already a heavy focus on next year's challenger. "There's determination for this year but also a lot of focus on next year and making sure we don't relax or get complacent," he said. "But also that we know why we are doing well. Which I think is very important. It's not like we've lucked into the position we are in now. We understand our strengths, weaknesses, where our threats come from, all of those things. "The team is very competent at the moment, and that's a very good position to be in. With leaders, like Zak and Andrea, who keep the team on their toes, with working hard, looking ahead to the future, and reminding us of our competition and how close they can be. "The fact that we didn't win all the races so far, we're not happy about that. It's a very good spirit in the team. "Same with Oscar. We're both getting along, enjoy working together. I push him, he pushes me, and that's good for the team. So yeah, all positive things."