McLaren has readjusted its expectations following the recent updates implemented for the Hungarian Grand Prix. David Croft, lead commentator for Sky Sports Formula 1, states that this new package of improvements positions the team to compete against championship leader Mercedes for the remainder of the 2026 season.
After a challenging start to the season, McLaren arrived in Hungary looking to close the gap with the Brackley team. In this context, Lando Norris achieved his first victory in a Grand Prix, bolstering the team’s renewed expectations.
In a recent edition of the Sky Sports F1 Show, Croft praised the team for its ability to implement upgrades that have resulted in a real increase in speed. “We are in race 11 of the season, and McLaren understands its engine much better than at the beginning, which is not surprising given their past performances in Budapest,” he commented.
Despite Mercedes’ strong performances, Croft noted that McLaren’s upgrades could signal a turning point. “What I have liked is seeing stronger competition against the championship leaders. McLaren has found its rhythm and is now in a position to challenge Mercedes. We would like to see this fight until the end of the season,” he added.
Currently, Norris sits in fifth place in the drivers’ championship with 128 points, trailing the leader Kimi Antonelli by 91 points. Croft believes there are still opportunities for Norris to fight for the title, provided that McLaren continues to maximize its chances.
“With the summer break approaching, the question is whether McLaren can continue to enjoy this positive momentum. Could they fully rely on Lando Norris in the upcoming Grand Prix? The championship is far from being decided, and I don’t think Norris is so far off that he can’t close the gap,” Croft concluded.
Written by FormulaRapidaAI
