Lando Norris doesn’t mince words in the press conference: “Oscar and I are the most balanced duo.”
Sweet and kind face, but no filters when he speaks to the media—Lando Norris is making headlines again, this time with a statement bound to stir tension in the paddock and on social media. According to the British driver, McLaren is currently the only Formula 1 team with two genuinely competitive drivers—something he sees as the true strength of the Woking-based team.
A bold stance, coming at a positive moment for the British squad: after the first races of the season, McLaren leads the Constructors’ Championship with a 21-point advantage over Mercedes, while Norris tops the Drivers’ standings thanks to his win in Melbourne, followed closely by Verstappen, Russell, and Oscar Piastri himself, who won in Shanghai.
Mercedes is also enjoying a solid start, with Russell and Antonelli both pleased with their form, while Ferrari is left chasing and licking its wounds after two disastrous weekends.
Lando Norris’ words
This is how the number 4 began: “We’re the only team with two drivers who can push to the limit every weekend,” said Norris. “The real difference isn’t just the car, but our ability to work together, push each other, and get the best result possible.”
A direct message to rivals like Red Bull and Ferrari. According to Norris, many teams have a clear imbalance between their first and second drivers, while McLaren can count on a consistent and well-matched line-up.
And the reference to Red Bull was clear: “Max is always up front, but his teammate often struggles to keep up,” he noted, especially in light of the recent swap between Lawson and Tsunoda.
As for Ferrari, Norris’ thoughts were more nuanced and tied to internal team dynamics: “Lewis just joined and needs time to get used to everything, even the steering wheel, which he said is much more complex than what he was used to. I’m not talking about Formula 1 experience, but about time spent inside a team. You can’t expect him to be at 100% right away.”
Still, Norris clarified that his words weren’t meant to diminish either Hamilton or Leclerc: “I don’t think I’m better than them—I’ve never said that and I never will. But the way we work, the cohesion between me and Oscar, that’s what makes the difference. I believe we’re the most effective pair on the grid right now,” , he concluded.
Photo: McLaren
