Tag: Lando Norris

After an impressive performance in qualifying and starting in third place, it’s natural to hope for a podium finish. However, Lando Norris is being realistic as he acknowledges that his car doesn’t have the capability to achieve outstanding results. Ever since McLaren introduced their new MCL60, it has been no secret that they would face a challenging year. That’s why, when asked about his goal for the race after qualifying, the witty British driver humorously replied, “Just hold on for dear life.” When further questioned if he was referring to securing the third position, he responded with a smile, “Top 10.” Nevertheless, on race day, he failed to meet even those lowered expectations, but this time it was due to his own mistake rather than the poor race pace of the MCL60.

The Spanish Grand Prix did not go as planned for Lando Norris, as he crossed the finish line in P17 despite starting from an impressive P2 on the grid. Norris has been a crucial asset to the McLaren team since the 2021 season, consistently showcasing his talent and unwavering determination on the racetrack. He has achieved remarkable results, including podium finishes and even securing his first-ever pole position, solidifying his position as a formidable competitor in the world of Formula 1. Nevertheless, his skills and potential have faced recent scrutiny from a former McLaren strategist.

The skilled McLaren driver has been making significant strides in the realm of Formula 1, impressive with his exceptional performances. Nonetheless, Neil Oatley, the Director of Design and Development at McLaren Racing, has cast doubt on his ability to adapt to diverse racing environments. Oatley recently shared his skepticism during a podcast episode of F1 Beyond the Grid, questioning whether a rapid racing driver can truly excel across different eras and racing disciplines.