Lando Norris has said that both he and Oscar Piastri, along with McLaren, are feeling a mix of nervousness and excitement about the possibility of competing against each other for the Formula 1 world championship. However, Norris believes that the team is well-equipped to manage this situation.
McLaren`s strong performance since the pre-season has positioned them as potential title contenders. Their drivers have already secured wins in the first two Grand Prix races of the season. A likely McLaren one-two finish was only prevented at the Australian Grand Prix due to Piastri`s spin in wet conditions.
Despite Piastri losing points in Melbourne, he won in China, placing Norris 10 points ahead in the current standings. Red Bull`s Max Verstappen and Mercedes` George Russell are positioned between them in the championship. The McLaren drivers are expected to be strong contenders for victory again at the upcoming race in Japan on April 6.
Current Driver Championship Standings
1) Lando Norris, McLaren – 44 points
2) Max Verstappen, Red Bull – 36 points
3) George Russell, Mercedes – 35 points
4) Oscar Piastri, McLaren – 34 points
When asked about the potential for a season-long title battle between him and his teammate, and the challenges it might bring, Norris commented that in China, they were allowed to race freely. He acknowledged Piastri`s excellent driving and victory in that race, and noted a similar situation in the previous race.
Norris referred to a couple of laps in the Australian Grand Prix where they maintained positions, but emphasized that for the majority of the time, they are permitted to race each other.
He anticipates closer racing between them at some point and believes both drivers are excited, and perhaps a little nervous, as is the team. However, he reiterated that they are prepared for this scenario.
Are McLaren Ready for a Driver Title Fight?
McLaren team principal Andrea Stella said after the Chinese GP:
“We have been preparing for this for a long time. In Formula 1, it`s presumptuous to claim complete readiness, as situations are complex and ever-changing. We must continuously learn, not just in performance and reliability, but also in team management. The key is that everyone prioritizes the team`s interests and adheres to our principles.
“We are fortunate to have Oscar and Lando, whose natural approach benefits the team. Internal competition will present challenges, but we will learn from them and further refine how we protect the team`s interests.”
Norris: Piastri Partnership a `Big Plus` for McLaren
Norris highlighted McLaren`s strong driver lineup, especially as Red Bull is reportedly considering replacements for Sergio Perez.
He believes that McLaren`s pairing of young drivers, Norris and Piastri, now in their third season together, is a significant advantage. He noted that McLaren achieved their first constructors` title since 1998 last year (Note: Correction – McLaren`s last constructors` title was in 1998, not last year).
Norris stated that, except for Ferrari, no other team has two drivers who push each other as much as they do.
He believes this driver partnership is a major advantage, even more so than having the best car or driver alone. He emphasized the strength of their team in learning and improving together.
Piastri added that he and Norris have different strengths, and in China, the conditions favored him. He also mentioned learning from Norris`s driving style and applying it to his own racing. He acknowledges the benefit of having strong teammates to learn from and improve, even if the exact lap time gain is hard to quantify.
Formula 1 is heading to the Suzuka Circuit for the Japanese Grand Prix on April 4-6.
