Lando Norris Reflects on Self-Doubt and McLaren's Championship Push After Mexico Win

Lando Norris has opened up about experiencing moments of self-doubt at the start of the 2025 season, despite now leading the championship after a commanding victory at the Mexico Grand Prix. The McLaren driver, who now holds a one-point lead over teammate Oscar Piastri, reflected on his early struggles and brushed aside critics of McLaren's dual-driver championship bid.

Why it matters:

• Norris's candid admission highlights the immense pressure even top-tier F1 drivers face, and his ability to overcome early season challenges to lead the championship underscores his mental fortitude and development as a driver.
• McLaren's championship fight, with both Norris and Piastri at the forefront, positions them as a formidable contender, especially as Red Bull's Max Verstappen gains momentum.
• Norris's defense of McLaren's strategy against critics provides insight into the team's internal dynamics and their belief in having two strong drivers.

The details:

• Early Season Struggles: Norris admitted to Sky Sports F1 that he had moments of self-doubt when the car was performing well, and Piastri was winning races, as he didn't want to blame the car.
  • He explained, "I wasn't getting up to grips and wasn't finding a way to make it work and I'm finding a better way to make it work now."
• Mexico Grand Prix Performance: Norris converted his pole position into a decisive win, showcasing strong form.
• Teammate's Performance: Oscar Piastri started seventh, dropped to ninth, but recovered to finish fifth, demonstrating resilience despite a more challenging race.
• Championship Standings: Norris currently leads Piastri by a single point, with four rounds remaining in the season.
• Red Bull's Threat: Max Verstappen is steadily closing in on both McLaren drivers with a late-season surge in performance.

Between the lines:

Norris was quick to dismiss claims that his battle with Piastri could hinder McLaren's defense against Verstappen, asserting that internal competition strengthens the team.

• He stated, "People can always say what they want and come up with their own opinions... I don't think it's hurt us at any point this season."
• Team Strength: Norris highlighted McLaren's success in the constructors' championship, which they secured last weekend in Singapore, as proof of their effective two-driver strategy.
• Contrast with Red Bull: He drew a comparison, noting that while Red Bull is fighting for a world championship, "they don't have a second driver that can perform and back him up."
• Unpraised Aspects: Norris believes McLaren's consistent performance with two strong drivers often goes unpraised, despite being crucial for a championship-contending team.

What's next:

With only four races left, the championship battle is heating up. Norris and Piastri's close fight, combined with Verstappen's late-season charge, promises an thrilling conclusion.

• McLaren's ability to manage the intra-team rivalry and maintain focus against external threats will be critical in their pursuit of the drivers' championship.
• The upcoming races will be a true test of McLaren's strategy and the mental toughness of both their drivers.