Lando Norris firmly denied Red Bull’s recent assertion that McLaren was adding water to its tyres to increase their durability, labeling the claim as “pre-school” and devoid of merit. This accusation surfaced following the Brazilian Grand Prix, with Red Bull claiming McLaren used this tactic to extend tyre life during races.
Norris on the ongoing scrutiny and rivalry between teams
Allegations of unfair advantages are not new in Formula 1, and McLaren’s effectiveness at managing tyre temperatures had sparked Red Bull’s concerns, leading them to seek clarification from the FIA. Norris dismissed these claims, emphasizing that such accusations are typical when teams are competing closely at the top level.
Speaking on the Beyond the Grid podcast, Norris remarked,
“It’s been very amusing seeing what people can come up with and just create out of nonsense,”
highlighting how the team faced increased scrutiny and additional regulations aimed at slowing them down. He explained that this pressure increases as teams reach success, and rivalries intensify.
“You know that’s a big part of it for them is trying to see how you can get at each other and how you can, in some ways by any means necessary,”
said Norris, pointing to the competitive nature of F1 teams. He noted that sometimes accusations arise from individuals inventing bizarre theories, including those about water in tyres or innovations in brake ducts, which actually indicate McLaren is doing things right.
“You’re doing a good job if people are having to come up with such nonsense,”
Norris added.
Adjusting to success: Norris reflects on McLaren’s return to the front
McLaren’s resurgence has demanded a new mindset from both Norris and the team, transitioning from celebrating minor successes to striving for outright wins. Norris described this shift as a challenging learning curve, noting that expectations have heightened significantly.
Currently trailing his teammate Oscar Piastri by eight points, Norris shared how past achievements once felt like major milestones, but now a podium finish is met with tempered satisfaction.
“One year, two years ago, we were ‘this is the most incredible day ever’. Finishing on the podium or even having a top five now it’s like, ‘well, we didn’t win. We’re not very happy’ and very different mindset to have,”
he said. Norris stressed the importance of resilience, understanding there is always room to improve, despite being one of the leading teams.
He acknowledged that even the best teams with the strongest cars face setbacks, but maintaining confidence throughout the long season is essential.
“So there’s just been different, challenging moments,”
Norris concluded.
The competitive atmosphere continues as teams vie for dominance
With tensions running high between McLaren and Red Bull, and with ongoing scrutiny by the FIA, the rivalry is likely to persist through the remainder of the season. As McLaren pushes to maintain their progress and Norris adapts to the pressures of being a title contender, both driver and team face the challenge of responding to accusations and sustaining performance under constant observation.
This unfolding competition underscores how closely matched the top teams are and how every detail is scrutinized in the battle for supremacy in Formula 1.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Lando Norris a billionaire?
A. Lando Norris, a British race car driver, began his Formula 1 career with McLaren in 2019. His earnings are around $30 million (£22.6 million).
Q. How rich is Lando Norris?
A. Lando Norris, a British racecar driver, entered Formula 1 with the McLaren team in 2019. He has earned $30 million (£22.6 million) so far.