Lando Norris’ ‘dreadful’ criticism shows McLaren’s problems extend well beyond failed upgrades

Lando Norris expressed strong frustration with McLaren's MCL40 following qualifying for the United States Grand Prix in Austin, qualifying seventh while teammate Oscar Piastri took eighth. Norris labeled the machine the hardest car he has ever driven in his life, describing the car's handling in slow-speed sections as dreadful despite possessing competitive pace.

Writer Sean Fisher argues that McLaren's issues run deeper than recently discarded upgrades, noting that Norris and Piastri have struggled with drivability throughout the entire season. Both drivers have consistently criticized the balance of the car across multiple race weekends, highlighting an underlying issue that McLaren must solve heading into 2027.