Norris Praises Ferrari's Superior Chassis Design as 2026 Grid Takes Shape
Despite Mercedes' commanding performance at the Australian Grand Prix, McLaren's Lando Norris has singled out Ferrari as possessing the most competitive car chassis in Formula 1's new regulatory era. The Scuderia's exceptional cornering capabilities have impressed the British driver, even as the Silver Arrows establish themselves as the early pace-setters.
While Mercedes continues to flex its muscles at the beginning of the 2026 season, Lando Norris is turning heads with a bold assessment of the competitive landscape—Ferrari, he insists, has constructed the superior car from a chassis perspective.
The Australian Grand Prix served as a crucial early indicator of where the grid truly stands following the introduction of the new technical regulations. Mercedes demonstrated commanding pace to secure victory at Albert Park, reinforcing their status as the team to beat in this new rules era. However, Ferrari's consistent presence as the Maranello squad's nearest rival has not gone unnoticed.
The performance gap separating Mercedes from the rest of the field appeared relatively modest in Australia, a dynamic that emerged clearly during the pre-season testing phase. Yet Norris has identified something particularly impressive about Ferrari's machinery: their exceptional capability through high-speed corners.
"Their cornering speed is unbelievable," Norris stated, highlighting the Scuderia's mechanical grip and handling characteristics as standout strengths in their current package.
Original source
Motorsport.com
Related Regulations
Hover over badges for quick summaries, or scroll down for full official text and simplified explanations.
Full Regulation Text
Article 3.1
2026 Aerodynamic Regulations
Chapter: Chapter III - Bodywork
In Simple Terms
2026 F1 cars get a major redesign. They'll be smaller, lighter, and feature active aero that adjusts automatically based on speed - like "Z-mode" for straights and "X-mode" for corners. This aims to make racing closer while keeping F1 cars as the pinnacle of technology.
- Smaller, lighter cars
- Active aerodynamic elements introduced
- Multiple aero modes for different conditions
- Designed for closer racing
Official FIA Text
For 2026, cars will feature revised aerodynamic regulations including active aerodynamic elements. The front and rear wing configurations will change to reduce downforce in certain conditions while maintaining close racing ability. Smaller overall dimensions aim to reduce car weight and improve racing.
Article C3.1
Aerodynamic Components or Bodywork
Chapter: ARTICLE C3: AERODYNAMIC COMPONENTS
In Simple Terms
Aerodynamic components and bodywork are all the parts of an F1 car that touch the air flowing around it. This includes wings, ducts for cooling and air intake, and heat exchangers—basically anything exposed to the airflow that helps the car go faster or stay cool.
- Covers all parts in contact with external airflow, including wings and body panels
- Includes cooling ducts, intake ducts for the engine, and heat exchangers
- These components are strictly regulated to ensure fair competition and safety
- Any modifications must comply with the detailed specifications in Article C3
Official FIA Text
Aerodynamic Components or Bodywork are parts of the car in contact with the External Air Stream. This includes all components described in Article C3, inlet or outlet cooling ducts, inlet ducts for the Power Unit, and primary heat exchangers.
Article C3.18.2
Bodywork Flexibility General
Chapter: C3
In Simple Terms
F1 cars must have bodywork that doesn't flex too much when tested with a special device. The test device pushes down on the car's body at a specific location, and the car's panels can only bend a maximum of 15mm under normal pressure or 20mm if pushed to one side.
- Bodywork deflection limits are 15mm symmetrical load or 20mm single-side load
- Test device must weigh no more than 2kg with a flat surface
- Device is positioned 475mm from the car's centerline (Y=0) and 1100mm forward from reference point
- Rules prevent teams from using overly flexible bodywork for aerodynamic advantage
Official FIA Text
Load application devices must have flat top surface without recesses, apply full load to bodywork at test point, be placed with inner face 475mm from Y=0, forward face at XF=-1100, top face at Z=300, and have mass no more than 2kg. Vertical deflection must not exceed 15mm when load applied symmetrically or 20mm when applied to one side.
Trending Articles
Formula 1 Confirms No Replacement Races Following Bahrain and Saudi Arabia Cancellations
about 5 hours ago
Live Betting During the Chinese Grand Prix: Your Guide to In-Play Wagering
about 6 hours ago
Damon Hill Returns to Broadcasting: Veteran Pundit Lands Fresh Platform Following Sky Sports Departure
about 6 hours ago
A Decade Since Murray Walker's Passing: Remembering F1's Greatest Voice
about 6 hours ago
Verstappen Narrowly Avoids FIA Scrutiny During Chinese Grand Prix Media Duties
about 6 hours ago