Lando Norris is facing mounting pressure to adapt his strategy amidst McLaren dynamics and Verstappen’s performance.
- Former F1 team boss Guenther Steiner suggests Norris should ‘get in line’ with teammate Oscar Piastri.
- Piastri’s calm demeanor and consistent performance have positioned him as McLaren’s leading driver.
- Max Verstappen’s strong showing despite challenges adds more pressure on McLaren’s strategy.
- The need for Norris to leverage experienced advice is highlighted, contrasting Piastri’s support network.
Lando Norris finds himself in a precarious position entering the F1 2025 season, with challenges from within his own team and the broader circuit sharpening the focus on his performance. Guenther Steiner, a respected voice in Formula 1, has offered advice suggesting that Norris align with his teammate Oscar Piastri, who has shown impressive leadership by maintaining a level head and securing a championship lead early in the season.
Steiner’s insights, shared on the Red Flags podcast, stem from observing Piastri’s ability to remain composed under pressure, a trait not as evident in Norris’s current approach. According to Steiner, Piastri’s mature reaction to racing outcomes, even when not favorable, demonstrates a psychological edge over Norris, whose emotional responses have been more visible in past seasons.
With Max Verstappen performing remarkably well despite issues with the RB21, Steiner argues that McLaren might consider prioritizing Piastri’s calm efficiency to navigate the competitive landscape. This development implies a potential shift in focus within McLaren, particularly if Verstappen’s dominance persists, signaling a tougher road ahead for Norris.
Steiner speculates that Norris’s struggles might partly be due to a less robust support network compared to Piastri, who benefits from guidance by seasoned racer Mark Webber. This lack of mentorship could be hindering Norris’s ability to maintain his focus and calm under pressure, elements crucial for success in such a demanding sport.
The forthcoming races will test McLaren’s strategic choices and Norris’s ability to adapt. As the season unfolds, the internal dynamics within McLaren could play a decisive role in the competition, especially with the summer break potentially marking a turning point depending on how close the competition stays.
Norris’s journey this season reflects the intricate balance of talent, mentorship, and strategy in the high-stakes world of Formula 1.
