Norris Unfazed By Piastri’s Momentum, Confident In McLaren’s Season-Long Strength

As Formula 1 returns to the Miami International Autodrome, the scene of Lando Norris’ maiden victory last year, the McLaren driver is looking to recapture the magic and secure another win at the iconic venue.

“It’s good memories, right? It’s stuff I dreamed of as a kid – winning and standing on the top step – and I managed to do it here, which was a cool place to do it,” Norris reminisced. “Thinking back to the race, chequered flag, seeing the team celebrations – a lot of things that always bring a smile to my face. So hopefully the plan is to try and do it again.”

Despite the fond memories, Norris is well aware of the challenges that lie ahead, with the competition consistently putting pressure on McLaren. “We feel good and confident we’re the best, but the others are certainly not far behind,” he acknowledged. “One little mistake and we’re behind and not where we want to be.”

Norris has faced his own struggles in qualifying at recent events but remains determined to turn things around. “I’m working on my things, what to improve, and trying to figure out all the things behind the scenes on what I need to do better on,” he explained. “It’s certainly not because of a lack of speed or ability to do so. I’ve often led the way in Q1 and Q2, but always when I’ve got to Q3, then it’s not gone to plan.”

The British driver also addressed the differences in car dynamics compared to last year, admitting that certain aspects have affected his ability to perform at the highest level. “It’s very difficult to answer. I think there are just certain things which don’t allow me to feel what I need to feel and those things are what allow me to drive to the level that I can drive at—to get pole positions and to drive at the highest level in racing,” Norris said. “We’re talking about small things. It’s not like it’s impossible to drive all of a sudden. It’s just when we’re talking about qualifying split by hundredths of a second, thousandths of a second, that’s what I’m complaining of and nothing more than that.”

Despite teammate Oscar Piastri’s recent success, Norris remains unfazed and confident in his own abilities. “He’s doing a good job and he deserves it. Nothing more than that. I don’t believe so much in the momentum stuff – that’s just my opinion,” he stated. “I’m doing what I can. I’ve clearly made some mistakes and not at the level I need to be, but I believe I can be at that level soon enough.”

Norris also praised the team’s evolution and ability to handle the increased scrutiny that comes with being championship leaders. “The team has still improved a lot, even since last year, in terms of how we work – the car has improved, the obvious things have improved – but the way the team performs has improved quite a good amount and that has to continue,” he said. “It’s more about dealing with the scrutiny. The team has to be even more precise with things, not make mistakes or do any silly little things.”

The positive atmosphere within the team and the strong working relationship with Piastri have also contributed to McLaren’s success, according to Norris. “It’s a great atmosphere, but the main thing is everyone’s still working together very well. There’s determination for this year but also a lot of focus on next year and making sure we don’t relax or get complacent,” he explained. “Same with Oscar – we’re both getting along, enjoy working together. I push him, he pushes me, and that’s good for the team.”