Despite the individual ambitions, Norris emphasized that teamwork remains crucial, especially in the early stages of the season
Lando Norris is embracing the challenge of competing against his McLaren teammate, Oscar Piastri, for the Formula 1 world title. While the British driver holds the early lead in the championship standings, he knows the battle within the team is only just beginning.
At the Chinese Grand Prix on Sunday (23.03.25), Norris finished second behind Piastri, highlighting the razor-thin margins between the two McLaren drivers. With their team seemingly having the fastest car on the grid, Norris expects an intense but respectful rivalry.
“I think we’re both excited—probably nervous and excited at the same time—just like the team,” Norris admitted. “But we’re ready. We work well together, we enjoy ourselves, but at the end of the day, we both want to prove who’s best. That’s inevitable, so there’s no point in avoiding it or overcomplicating things.”
Despite their individual ambitions, Norris emphasized that teamwork remains crucial, especially in the early stages of the season. He and Piastri must work together to maintain McLaren’s advantage over their rivals before the inevitable development race tightens the competition.
“I think we both achieved something better this weekend because of our teamwork,” Norris said. “And we’ll continue to do that. Other teams will catch up, just like we did last year. We have to think long-term and push the team forward together.”
While the podium finish was another positive result, Norris admitted he was lucky to even complete the race in Shanghai. A late brake issue nearly ended his hopes, leaving him relieved but concerned.
“I was lucky—lucky to finish the race today, which is not something you ever want to be saying,” he revealed. “Brakes are something you hate to think about, but you absolutely need them—they can save your life. It’s the worst feeling when you press the brake, and nothing happens, and your foot just goes to the floor.”
With McLaren looking stronger than ever, Norris knows the season ahead will be a balancing act—pushing for personal success while ensuring the team remains on top. As he and Piastri prepare for the next race, the battle for supremacy within McLaren is set to be one of the most compelling storylines of the season.
