ARTICLE AD BOX
While many expect McLaren to be fastest at the start of the 2025 season at the Australian Grand Prix, Lando Norris is trying to temper those expectations, but at the same time believes that he is better prepared to fight for the title this year.
“I’m just excited to have another chance,” Norris said ahead of the start of the championship in Melbourne.
Norris was the closest challenger to Max Verstappen last year, but although McLaren ; with huge contributions from Oscar Piastrí; won the constructors’ title for the first time since 1998, Norris was unable to overtake the Dutchman in the drivers’ title race. Nevertheless, the British driver does not see last year’s failure as a disappointment, but as a valuable experience.
“I learned a lot last year,” he said.
“Being competitive against Max is a unique situation, something you don’t experience until you get to that level. If I were to fight against other drivers, it would probably be easier. Max is always ready to push the limits, he always goes all the way.”
Lando also stressed that he feels much more prepared this year.
“I learned from my mistakes last year and now I know what I need to do to be at the right level,” he adds. “I’m excited to have the opportunity to compete at the highest level again.”
Leclerc and Hamilton
In addition to Verstappen, Norris is also looking to fight for the title against Charles Leclerc, Lewis Hamilton and his teammate Oscar Piastre. At McLaren this year, there will be fewer restrictions on the battles between each other, without the “papaya rules” that were in place last season.
“We are free to race, we are happy to fight each other,” says Norris. “Our strength last year was mutual support and respect. Although we want to beat each other, we have to remain fair on the track.”
English (US)