Norris on ‘biggest factor’ giving confidence for second half
Lando Norris says McLaren’s recent upgrades and team confidence are the main reasons he believes the team can challenge Mercedes and Ferrari in the second half of the season.
Lando Norris expressed confidence in McLaren’s ability to remain competitive in the second half of the season following his victory at the Hungarian Grand Prix. He identified the team’s recent progress, including upgrades tested in Budapest, as the primary factor driving his optimism. Norris acknowledged the need for further analysis to determine the upgrades’ consistency across different circuits but emphasized the positive step forward. The Dutch Grand Prix marks the start of the season’s second half, where McLaren aims to build on its improved performance.
Norris cautioned against overconfidence, noting that while the win in Hungary was encouraging, McLaren must continue refining its understanding of the car’s upgrades. He highlighted the importance of assessing whether the improvements are universally applicable or specific to certain track conditions. The Briton also referenced McLaren’s past strong performances at Zandvoort, suggesting the circuit’s characteristics could play to the team’s strengths. His measured approach reflects a focus on sustained progress rather than short-term gains.
The Dutch circuit presents unique challenges, including colder wind conditions compared to Budapest, which Norris noted could impact the car’s performance. He stressed the need to evaluate how these factors interact with the upgrades introduced in Hungary. Despite uncertainties, Norris pointed to McLaren’s recent consistency as a positive sign, even if the team remains slightly more inconsistent than in previous seasons. His remarks underscore the ongoing process of optimizing the MCL40 for peak performance.
When asked about the key drivers behind his confidence, Norris cited McLaren itself as the most significant factor. He praised the team’s leadership, including Andrea Stella and Zak Brown, as well as the collective mindset within the organization. Norris also expressed faith in his own performance, citing his strong showing in Budapest and throughout the season. His remarks reflect a blend of team trust and personal belief, positioning McLaren as a serious contender in the championship fight.