Lando Norris, the reigning Formula 1 world champion, linked up with McLaren’s Hypercar program at Portimao on Monday, clocking his first laps in the MCL-HY.
The 26-year-old headed to Portugal directly after the F1 event in Madrid the previous weekend, pairing with the squad’s confirmed drivers Mikkel Jensen and Laurens Vanthoor for the fifth track test of the Dallara-built LMDh chassis.
During the day, the 26-year-old racked up 38 laps, marking his first on-track run with the car after previously whetting his appetite on the Goodwood Hill at July’s Festival of Speed.
His running encompassed several development tasks, with the team describing his input as highly valuable in a release from McLaren.
“First of all, I’d like to thank the McLaren Hypercar team for giving me the opportunity to drive the MCL-HY,” he commented. “It was a valuable moment for me to have a bit of fun and try something new, especially during their busy run-up to next year.”
“I believe we gathered meaningful data as well, and I hope my impressions, notes, and viewpoints offer the team a fresh angle during this critical testing window.”
“On a personal level, it was exciting to collaborate with this squad and to experience a new machine as well.”
“After years without a proper test outside of an F1 car, the chance to experiment with something different—and still within the McLaren family—felt particularly special.”
“It proved to be an enjoyable day behind the wheel of a swift car on a great circuit, contributing to the squad’s readiness for next year’s WEC. My thanks go to all who took part; I’m eager to climb back in the MCL-HY again down the line.”
With backing from McLaren Racing chief Zak Brown, Norris has voiced an interest in competing at Le Mans in the future, though a 2027 Le Mans appearance remains uncertain given that the 2027 F1 calendar has not yet been published.
James Barclay, head of the McLaren Hypercar project, told Sportscar365 they are in the process of locking in the last two drivers for the 2027 Hypercar program, and they are reportedly awaiting the IndyCar calendar to assess whether Scott Dixon, the new addition to the lineup, might be considered for a Le Mans drive.
“At McLaren Racing, we are all racers, and taking part across Formula 1, IndyCar, and the World Endurance Championship opens thrilling cross-series possibilities,” Barclay said. “Lando was keen to drive the MCL-HY beyond his Goodwood Hill lap, so we invited him to join our private Portimao test.”
“As anticipated, he adapted rapidly, integrated seamlessly, and offered valuable feedback to support the car’s development.”
“It was a pleasure to have him with the team; we wish him every success for the rest of the Formula 1 season, and we look forward to welcoming him back into the McLaren Hypercar Team soon.”
