Villeneuve: Norris 'Collapsed' in Piastri Battle

Norris's Struggles: A Critical Assessment

Why it matters: Jacques Villeneuve offers a stark analysis of Lando Norris's performance, suggesting a decline compared to teammate Oscar Piastri.

The big picture: Villeneuve believes Norris is struggling mentally, making costly mistakes while Piastri excels.

What's happening:

• Norris vs. Piastri: Piastri leads Norris in the F1 drivers' championship by 16 points.
• Villeneuve's view: Norris is regressing, while Piastri remains focused.
• Mental game: Villeneuve suggests Norris is struggling with pressure.
• Mistakes: Norris is making costly errors despite being faster.

Villeneuve, the 1997 world champion, suggests that Lando Norris's performance has faltered, allowing Oscar Piastri to gain a significant lead in the F1 drivers' championship. Villeneuve believes that Norris is 'stepping backwards' and struggling with the pressure.

According to Villeneuve, Piastri's success isn't due to a significant improvement but rather Norris's own struggles. Villeneuve stated, "I don't think Oscar Piastri has got into Lando Norris's head, I think Lando got into his own head."

Norris's costly errors are a point of concern, despite his speed. Villeneuve highlighted that Norris has been making "too many small mistakes," which have resulted in lost positions and points, especially given the competitive field. Villeneuve explained that Norris has been underperforming since the beginning of the season because of the pressure.