Lando Norris eyes advantage in early Russell and Antonelli rivalry

Lando Norris has acknowledged that McLaren has started the 2026 Formula 1 season 'on the back foot,' but sees opportunity in the ongoing rivalry between Mercedes teammates George Russell and Kimi Antonelli. Norris drew a parallel to 2025, when his own battles with Oscar Piastri inadvertently benefited Max Verstappen, and expressed hope that a similar dynamic between the Mercedes drivers could work in McLaren's favor this season. Despite the difficult start, Norris remains optimistic that McLaren can capitalize as the season progresses.