For a sport that has just celebrated its Platinum Jubilee (75th anniversary), it might seem strange to say it could witness its most drastic change next year – 2026. Yet, as Formula 1 crowns Lando Norris as World Drivers’ Champion for the very first time, it may well be standing on the doorstep of a completely new universe. And I say that despite the cars looking similar and the drivers staying mostly the same. So what’s changing? Let’s take a look.

For the first time in four years, the No. 1 will not be painted on the dark blue of a Red Bull, but instead on the papaya of a McLaren. Lando Norris overcame his fair share of dark moments to put together a consistent run that saw him clinch what turned out to be a fairly-thrilling championship finale in 2025.