McLaren team principal Andrea Stella revealed Lando Norris continues to suffer from a straightline speed issue that costs between 0.1 and 0.2 seconds per lap, with the reigning champion losing speed on every straight at Sepang International Circuit. The problem appears to be power-related but remains difficult to diagnose due to the complexity of current Formula 1 regulations.
Stella explained that Norris shows a deficit of 1-2 kilometers per hour in top speed compared to teammate Oscar Piastri when all other parameters are equal. The issue becomes masked when Norris has even minimal slipstream from cars ahead, making it challenging to identify the root cause during sessions.
The Italian emphasized that multiple factors could contribute to the speed loss, including power unit parameters that depend on chassis settings or aerodynamic drag differences. He stressed that McLaren is not blaming Mercedes' High Performance Powertrains division but rather investigating all possible causes including chassis-related elements.
McLaren can only implement changes for the Singapore Grand Prix, limiting their ability to address the issue during the current Malaysian weekend. The deficit has been consistent across multiple race weekends, with the team taking responsibility for not yet resolving what Stella called a fair concern for Norris's competitive position.