Lando Norris could become a MotoGP rider in 2026. Here’s what Günther Steiner thinks!
Lando Norris might soon experience something completely new away from the world of single-seaters. The McLaren driver, who won his first Formula 1 world championship in Abu Dhabi by narrowly beating Max Verstappen by just two points, has reportedly received a surprising invitation: to get on a MotoGP KTM bike.
The idea was suggested by Günther Steiner, former Haas team principal, now involved in a new project in the MotoGP world. Gunther Steiner has taken over the Tech 3 KTM satellite team and will return as CEO starting in 2026. Speaking on the podcast The Red Flags, Gunther Steiner explained that Lando Norris would be welcome to test the bike, provided he receives approval from McLaren CEO Zak Brown.
Will Norris actually ride a KTM?
“He is welcome to ride our bike next year. It has the same color as the McLaren, papaya. He can come to try it whenever he wants; we’ll find a way,” Steiner stated.
He also acknowledged some potential complications: “It would be something nice for him, although I’m not sure how happy Zak Brown would be to see him on a MotoGP bike!”
The potential opportunity is not surprising, considering that Norris has long been a big MotoGP fan. The British driver has repeatedly cited Valentino Rossi as one of his idols in motorsport, even incorporating the legendary fluorescent yellow of the “Doctor” into his personal brand. From a commercial and media perspective, such a crossover would likely be welcomed by Liberty Media, which has controlled both Formula 1 and MotoGP since last July. A crossover between the two categories could serve as a very powerful promotional tool.
As the 2026 seasons approach for both championships, this potential test ride highlights the growing synergies between F1 and MotoGP – promising exciting possibilities for crossover events that celebrate the best of four and two wheels.
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