McLaren driver Lando Norris has openly stated that he prefers to keep his distance from fellow Formula 1 rivals when spending time in Monaco. As a major motorsport hub, Monaco serves as a residence and retreat for numerous F1 stars, including Norris and his teammate Oscar Piastri. Norris has shared that during his breaks in the principality, he intentionally avoids interaction with other drivers to maintain focus and relaxation amid the intense championship battle.
Recognizing the importance of downtime, Norris emphasized his desire to disconnect from racing conversations when away from the track. This strategy helps him preserve mental clarity as he competes for top honors with Piastri in the McLaren lineup.
The Reason Behind Norris’s Preference for Privacy in Monaco
In a candid moment from the recent Monaco Grand Prix, Norris revealed the value he places on relaxation during his time off. He explained:
“When I’m here it’s because I have a few days off and I can relax so, making the most of my relaxation days.”
—Lando Norris, McLaren F1 Driver
When asked about his interactions with teammate Oscar Piastri in Monaco, Norris responded with a lighthearted remark:
“Thankfully no. I don’t want to see any other drivers when I’m here, apart from when we play padel or golf, then I’ll see maybe Carlos or Alex or George.”
—Lando Norris, McLaren F1 Driver
Norris further clarified his position on avoiding fellow racers while at home, stating:
“Literally when I’m at home I rarely want to see other drivers just because you feel like you can disconnect and most likely when you’re with other drivers you’re going to talk about racing again and I don’t want to talk about racing when I’m away.”
—Lando Norris, McLaren F1 Driver
Dynamics Between Norris and Piastri as Title Contenders
Although Norris’s desire to stay away from other drivers in Monaco may seem to suggest tension, his relationship with teammate Oscar Piastri is more complex than outright rivalry or friendship. The two drivers have not developed the close rapport Norris once shared with ex-teammate Carlos Sainz, yet they do not figure among F1’s most heated rivalries either.
Currently, Norris and Piastri are locked in a competitive fight for the 2025 drivers’ title, with McLaren committed to allowing both drivers to compete openly for race wins and better championship placement. Piastri leads the standings at this stage, but Norris has also marked significant achievements this season, including victories at the prestigious Monaco Grand Prix and his home event in Silverstone.
Last year, Norris came close to a championship breakthrough before Max Verstappen dominated the season, but with McLaren’s management backing an equitable approach to their driver battle, both Norris and Piastri will need to push hard to claim the crown.
Monaco’s Role in the McLaren Title Race
Monaco’s status as a magnet for the Formula 1 elite means both Norris and Piastri live amid constant proximity to competitors. Norris’s preference for avoiding direct encounters outside of the paddock underlines the mental challenges of balancing a friendly yet fierce title fight. By carving out space for rest and detachment, he seeks to maintain his competitive edge without becoming overwhelmed by constant racing discourse.
As the season advances toward its critical stages, Norris’s deliberate approach to his downtime in Monaco may prove an essential factor in sustaining his focus and resilience against championship rivalries both within and beyond McLaren.