McLaren is an iconic team with a storied legacy of 183 wins over 60 years. However, Lando Norris, the talented Briton, finds himself in a perplexing situation. Despite the team’s impressive history, Norris believes he is drifting further away from his dreams. In a candid discussion on the Beyond The Grid Podcast with host Tom Clarkson, Norris expressed his frustrations, shedding light on the challenges he faces and the improvements he seeks from his beloved McLaren.

Despite McLaren’s recent performance improvements, including the introduction of significant upgrades to the MCL60, Norris feels that the advancements have not addressed the fundamental handling issues that plague the car. While the upgrades have undoubtedly added downforce and improved pace, Norris emphasizes that the car’s inherent traits still make it incredibly challenging to drive. However, as he joined Clarkson on the podcast, there was an undeniable sense of disappointment in Norris’ voice, hinting at the growing gap between his aspirations and his current reality.

Norris had a breakthrough moment in his sophomore year at the 2020 Austrian GP, securing his first podium finish. And during the podcast, Clarkson posed a poignant question to Norris, asking whether he felt closer to his first win or further away compared to the last time they spoke. Norris, with a hint of regret, admitted, “Yes, as much as it hurts me to say it.”

Lando cited how the 2021 car worked brilliantly for McLaren where they were often in the mix for podiums. Citing the examples of Austria & Russia where the Briton got pole but lost the race despite leading it till the ending stages. He concluded to cite how the Woking team has fallen from grace, “Yes by quite a long way. It is a long way from where we were.” This revealing statement lays bare Norris’ deep-rooted concerns about his current position in the sport.

Despite his frustrations, Norris remains optimistic about McLaren’s potential. The team’s dedicated pursuit of further upgrades and improvements instills confidence in him. As they prepare for the British GP at Silverstone, one can only hope that McLaren can unlock their true potential.

Read more: “Whether I’m Happy or Not…”: With His Fate Sealed at McLaren Until 2025, Lando Norris Refuses to Blame Zak Brown & Co. for Continued Failure

Lando Norris & Co.’s Perspective on Challenging Red Bull

As Red Bull’s dominance in F1 continues with Max Verstappen securing 9 consecutive wins in the 2023 season, Zak Brown remains optimistic about the future. Despite the predictable on-track spectacle at the front, Brown believes that F1’s commercial appeal remains strong, with no signs of waning interest. However, he acknowledges the need for closer competition and sees potential for other teams to challenge Red Bull’s supremacy. As their ambitious mid-season upgrade package unfolds at Silverstone, they may strive to defy the odds.

Brown points to Sergio Perez, Verstappen’s teammate, as a possible weak link in their dominance. While Verstappen has been the standout performer, Perez’s performances have offered hope to the chasing pack. Brown expresses his belief that it’s only a matter of time before other teams catch up, suggesting that Red Bull’s success is primarily reliant on Verstappen’s exceptional driving skills.

Will McLaren rise to the challenge and redefine the pecking order? Only time will reveal.

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