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Norris Claims No. 1 for 2026 as Red Bull Weighs Changes and Rookies Headline Abu Dhabi Test

Rookie pace in Abu Dhabi plus uncertainty over Helmut Marko's future signal a shifting paddock following McLaren's title sweep.

Overview

  • Lando Norris will run car number 1 next season under FIA rules for the reigning champion, leaving Max Verstappen to choose a new permanent number after carrying 1 since 2021.
  • Red Bull has opened internal talks on its structure, with reports indicating Helmut Marko could exit after 21 years, while Marko says discussions will proceed without haste.
  • Williams prospect Luke Browning set the fastest time of the post‑season test’s morning session at Yas Marina with a 1:23.920.
  • McLaren gave IndyCar driver Pato O’Ward rookie mileage in Abu Dhabi; he completed 62 laps and ranked third in the morning classification.
  • Andrea Kimi Antonelli apologized after the finale incident, and Max Verstappen publicly accepted it, saying there were no hard feelings.