McLaren wraps up pre-break running with Portimão test

McLaren made sure its engines did not fall silent quietly before Formula 1’s annual shutdown, sending its drivers back into action for one final blast around the sweeping hills of Autódromo Internacional do Algarve in Portimão.

While much of the paddock headed for holidays after the Hungarian Grand Prix, the reigning world champions to Portugal for a two-day TPC (Testing of Previous Cars) programme with team papay’s 2023 MCL60

Fresh from claiming his first victory of the 2026 season in Budapest, Lando Norris was first out on the opening day of running, followed by team-mate Oscar Piastri and reserve driver Leonardo Fornaroli who also joined in on the action.

Norris returns to where it all began

For Norris, the test carried extra emotion. Portimão – which will make a thrilling return to the F1 calendar in 2027 and 2028 – was the venue where he first experienced a Formula 1 car, and the memory clearly remains vivid.

“It’s been a productive test for us, and it was good to be back in Portimão,” Norris said. “This was where I drove an F1 car for the very first time, so it’s a special track for me. It’s also one that’s enjoyable to drive, with some fun, challenging corners.

“We were able to complete everything we wanted and add some valuable mileage. It’s a good way to sign off for the summer break. I’m looking forward to spending some time with family and friends, recharging and come back strong in Zandvoort.”

Piastri discovers Portimão’s challenge

Piastri arrived with no prior experience of the circuit and quickly found himself dealing with Portimão’s famously shifting grip levels and dramatic elevation changes.

“This was my first time driving the F1 circuit in Portimão,” he said.

“The changing conditions made it an interesting place to drive, and the elevation changes made it really fun. We got through the entire programme we set out to do, and the team are happy.

“It’s a good point to pause for the summer shutdown. It’s been a pretty intense season for us, so it will be nice for everyone to switch off before we get back to it.”

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Fornaroli continued his development programme with McLaren, completing extensive mileage across the two days and relishing the opportunity to learn directly from the team’s front-line drivers.

“I’ve really enjoyed being part of this event in Portimão,” commented the Italian. “This was my first time driving around this circuit, and every opportunity to drive the MCL60 at a TPC test is important for my development. It was great working alongside Lando and Oscar.

“Watching how they approach different conditions and listening to their feedback are valuable learning experiences for me.

“We completed a lot of running across both days. The wind made it slightly trickier, so there was a lot to learn. I want to thank the McLaren Mastercard Formula 1 Team and everyone in the McLaren Driver Development Programme for their continued support and for the opportunities of development that they offer me. I can feel my improvement with every lap, and I look forward to continue building from here.”

As the final laps were completed and the garage doors closed, McLaren left Portimão with fresh mileage, fresh data and, perhaps most importantly, a chance to recharge before the championship battle resumes at Circuit Zandvoort.

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