Carlos Sainz highlighted the challenges faced by Lando Norris during the 2025 F1 season, warning of a potential career impact similar to what Daniel Ricciardo experienced due to an incompatible car. Norris, currently battling in the championship, has struggled to extract consistent performance from his McLaren. These difficulties have marked one of the toughest seasons of his career so far.

Throughout the year, Norris has encountered issues adapting to the car, which has resulted in more frequent mistakes than usual. His teammate Oscar Piastri, who has shown significant improvement, now matches or surpasses Norris’ level, adding pressure to the British driver’s championship bid.

Emergence of Oscar Piastri as a Formidable Rival Within McLaren

The rivalry between Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri has grown intense this season, with Piastri taking the lead in the championship after ten races. Norris, once having a noticeable edge over Piastri, has struggled with the car’s handling, undermining his advantage. This has contributed to his being over 20 points behind his teammate in the standings.

Piastri’s adaptation to the McLaren package appears to have been smoother, positioning him as Norris’ main competitor both within the team and on the overall leaderboard. Norris’ ongoing complaints about a lack of connection with the car highlight his difficulties maintaining his previously strong form.

Sainz Reflects on Ricciardo’s McLaren Experience as a Cautionary Tale

Before the Austrian Grand Prix, Carlos Sainz spoke candidly about Norris’ struggles, drawing parallels to Daniel Ricciardo’s tenure at McLaren. Ricciardo’s career reportedly suffered after his performance declined due to struggles with a car that didn’t suit his driving style.

“It’s obviously not an easy year for Lando. As an outsider and talking to him, it’s clear that he’s not getting the same feeling from the car that he’s had in previous years. It’s unfortunate that this is happening to him in the same year that he’s fighting for the championship. We’ve seen a number of drivers whose careers have been derailed by a year where the car wasn’t quite what they wanted.” —Carlos Sainz, F1 Driver

Sainz emphasized the complexity of Formula 1, noting how multiple factors beyond talent influence a driver’s success. He further explained:

“I could mention Daniel, for example, when he went to McLaren. If it happens in the same year that you have a championship-winning car, it’s bad luck. But that’s why Formula 1 is such a complex sport. It’s not just about you and your talent, it’s about everything coming together at the right moment.” —Carlos Sainz, F1 Driver

Confidence in Norris’ Ability to Overcome Current Challenges

Despite Norris’ current difficulties, Sainz expressed confidence that the British driver possesses the talent to regain his form. He pointed out the remaining races in the season as opportunities for Norris to recalibrate and improve his results.

“I feel like Lando is a driver and he has the ability to turn things around with his talent and his speed. There are still a lot of races left, anything can happen in those, and in the end it will be about putting those qualifying laps together at the right moment.” —Carlos Sainz, F1 Driver

Norris approaches the Austrian Grand Prix, a circuit where he has historically performed well, including a strong qualifying record against his teammates. This race will serve as a key indicator of his capability to counter Piastri’s rise on a track that suits his style.

Implications for Norris and McLaren as the Season Progresses

The outcome of Norris’ response to his current struggles carries significant weight for both his career trajectory and McLaren’s championship aspirations. If he manages to adapt and recover, it could reaffirm his standing and stability within the team. Conversely, continued difficulties similar to those faced by Ricciardo might impose further challenges for Norris.

As the championship continues, the dynamic between Norris and Piastri, combined with car performance, will play a crucial role in shaping McLaren’s success and the drivers’ futures in Formula 1.