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McLaren Puts Norris and Piastri on Equal Title Footing for 2026

Zak Brown dismisses rivals’ power‑unit complaints, saying Mercedes engines have passed all checks.

Overview

  • Zak Brown says Lando Norris’ confidence is sky high and the reigning champion is highly motivated to defend his title.
  • Oscar Piastri is described as on a Norris‑like development path, with Brown expecting him to contend for the championship.
  • McLaren will keep both drivers free to race, with any campaign decisions to be taken strategically as situations arise.
  • Pre‑season running continues in Bahrain this week ahead of the March 8 season opener in Melbourne.
  • Rival teams question Mercedes’ compression‑ratio approach, while Brown insists the power units are compliant and expects all Mercedes‑powered entries to start in Australia.