Even after the championship has concluded, drivers and teams return to the track for important testing. The Abu Dhabi post-season tests are crucial for evaluating the new 2026 Pirelli tires. With multiple changes, including tire graphics and dimensions, getting on track is essential to gather key feedback for the upcoming season.
Teams run two cars for the tests: one “standard” car driven by a rookie—McLaren continues with Pato O’Ward—and a modified mule car designed to simulate the 2026 regulations, driven by a regular race driver. McLaren chose to put both of its main drivers on track, with Lando Norris taking the morning session and Oscar Piastri taking over in the afternoon.
Lando Norris’ special helmet and the missing detail
Winning your first World Championship is unforgettable. Social media posts confirm that Norris followed Max Verstappen’s advice to throw a big celebration and fully enjoy the moment. However, the festivities were short-lived: the 26-year-old from Bristol returned to the track this morning in his MCL39, now modified to replicate the 2026 regulations.
To celebrate his championship, Lando Norris wore a special gold helmet. But one important detail is still missing on his car: it still sports the #4. Lando Norris has already decided that next season he will race with the #1, a fitting symbol of his 2025 triumph.
Gold helmet today, #1 on the car tomorrow – Lando Norris is wasting no time getting used to life as reigning world champion.
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