The battle for supremacy in F1 has taken an unexpected turn as Lando Norris and McLaren showcased a remarkable surge in form, leaving rivals in awe of his driving prowess. As the Woking-based team makes significant strides with their MCL60 upgrades, George Russell concedes that they can no longer ignore McLaren’s growing threat on the track. With Norris securing back-to-back podium finishes at the British and Hungarian GPs, the British driver’s undeniable talent and McLaren’s remarkable progress are now undeniably evident. It would be safe to agree with Lewis Hamilton and call it a ‘Rocket Ship.’
McLaren‘s transformation from a struggling contender to a formidable force has been a remarkable journey. At the start of the season, Norris faced a series of disappointments, struggling to achieve a top-ten finish in the first eight races. However, everything changed after McLaren introduced an extensive overhaul in three stages during the races in Austria, Silverstone, and Hungary. The MCL60’s upgraded aerodynamics, engineered under the guidance of new team principal Andrea Stella, have propelled the team to new heights.
George Russell believes #McLaren is a “true contender” for being best of the rest in the 2023 #Formula1 season following back-to-back podiums.
“It's absolutely clear they are true contenders for the second fastest team…”#F1 #Mercedes #BelgianGP pic.twitter.com/Z7iZTsT7WN
— McLaren F1 News 🏴🇦🇺 (@TheMcLarenZone) July 25, 2023
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Acknowledging McLaren’s newfound speed, George Russell asserts, “It’s absolutely clear they are true contenders for the second fastest team,” he further adds, “So if it wasn’t for McLaren, we’d be very, very satisfied with the progress we’re making. Moving ahead of the midfield pulling a gap on our rivals, closing on Red Bull.” “Russell knows how it is going to be extra complicated with multiple teams fighting for being the best of the rest behind Red Bull unlike 2022.
Last season, Mercedes was pretty settled as the 3rd best team but this year George cited the threat Aston Martin & now McLaren bring. He added, “McLaren have just totally thrown it in the mix. But it gives you optimism that there is potential to make bigger steps.” Russell remarks while Mercedes was previously expected to dominate the midfield, the rapid progress of McLaren has left them with a stern reality check.
While Lando Norris basks in the spotlight, his remarkable performance is only one facet of McLaren’s resurgence. Apart from the on-track rivalry, F1 drivers also find time for some lighthearted banter off the circuit.
George Russell’s Friendly Jab and a Tardy Arrival
As George Russell and Lando Norris arrived promptly for the special interview, they were left waiting for their fellow driver, Alex Albon, who was running almost 10 minutes late. Russell, known for his good-natured humor, playfully called Albon on FaceTime to hasten his arrival through the paddock. In a hilarious clip shared on Mercedes’ social media, Russell’s joking rebuke to Albon after his belated arrival at the studio was captured.
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Just waiting for a mate. 😂 @alex_albon pic.twitter.com/IJf0LPWSAt
— Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team (@MercedesAMGF1) July 25, 2023
With a grin on his face, Russell jokingly expressed his disapproval of Albon’s tardiness, proclaiming, “Eight minutes late! Unacceptable.” As Albon made his way into the room, he lightened the atmosphere with a self-deprecating remark. He playfully declared, “I f***** up your toilet,” which left the crew members and Lando Norris in fits of laughter.
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Despite their on-track rivalries, it is heartening to witness the camaraderie and camaraderie shared among the drivers, reminding us that F1 is not only about high-speed action but also moments of humor and connection between the racing stars.
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