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Norris says McLaren favorites have learned from last year

Posted : 17 March 2025

Lando Norris demonstrated that both he and McLaren have improved by taking the lead in the Formula One drivers' championship, ending Max Verstappen's dominant run at the top.


Norris’ victory in the Australian season opener on Sunday halted Verstappen’s winning streak, which had lasted since May 2022. The British driver faced several challenges during the race, including multiple safety cars, difficult conditions, and a slippery surface that caught out both newcomers and experienced drivers.


“We spent a lot of time preparing for a race like this during the winter,” Norris explained. “Last season, we threw away several opportunities in races like Canada and Silverstone because we weren’t fully prepared and didn’t grasp how critical those moments were.”


He reflected on how McLaren had the chance to win in Canada and Silverstone but lost out due to tire decisions. McLaren later secured the constructor’s title for the first time since 1998, though Norris finished as the runner-up behind Verstappen.


Norris acknowledged that McLaren had worked hard to improve in areas that were lacking in the previous season. "We made a lot of improvements in terms of communication and responsiveness, and it paid off. We got it right this time, and it put us on top," he said.


While Norris recognized McLaren as favorites, he remained cautious about complacency. “Max was just three-tenths off in qualifying, and last year, we were much further behind. We ended up with the best car at the end of the season, though, so we know things can change,” he said.


Despite starting from pole position, which had not always worked out in the past, Norris focused on strategy and team communication. “It’s tricky when you're in the lead and unsure of the tire choices. I made sure the team was aware and ready to make the right call,” he said.


In the final laps, Norris faced the challenge of leading with Verstappen behind him, putting pressure on him to hold the lead. “It was my first time in that situation,” Norris admitted. "Max has had similar moments with Lewis Hamilton and is more accustomed to the pressure. For me, it was a new experience, but I stayed calm and handled it better than I did last year."

 

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