McLaren Sees Lando Norris as “World Championship Material” After Securing Multi-Year Deal

McLaren’s recent announcement of Lando Norris committing to a multi-year deal has bolstered the team’s confidence in their pursuit of championship aspirations. The extension ensures Norris remains with McLaren beyond the 2025 season, dispelling doubts raised amid alleged interest from Red Bull.

Andrea Stella, overseeing McLaren’s F1 operations and having worked with illustrious drivers like Michael Schumacher, Fernando Alonso, and Kimi Raikkonen, categorizes Norris in the same league of “World Championship material.” Stella highlighted Norris’s talent, mindset, and work ethic, describing him as ready to contend for the championship.

Norris, with five F1 seasons under his belt, has earned a strong reputation through consistent performances, amassing 13 podiums but yet to secure a race win. McLaren’s recent resurgence and high expectations for their upcoming car align with Norris’s commitment to on-track improvement.

Stella emphasized Norris’s growth and likened him to champions who continually improve year after year. The team sees Norris’s commitment and potential as integral to their pursuit of success in the highly competitive Formula 1 landscape.

While McLaren did not disclose the specific duration of Norris’s contract, describing it as a “multi-year” extension, it aligns with their strategy of securing driver contracts while keeping certain details confidential. McLaren CEO Zak Brown emphasized the team’s discretion regarding contract details, citing it as part of their business practice.