Lando Norris & Daniel Ricciardo Obliviously Crossed Paths 7 Years Ahead of McLaren F1 Union

Lando Norris and Daniel Ricciardo have had many iconic press moments, both individually and together. Polled as the top two jokers on the grid, the drivers once shared the stage in a much simpler and sober time. Now, as teammates in McLaren, we wonder if the two remember this moment in time.

Lando Norris’ father shared a picture of his son at the 2014 FIA prize-giving ceremony at Doha. Looking a bit to the right, however, is none other than Daniel Ricciardo. A much smaller Norris looks on as the two sandwiched WRC champion Petter Solberg between them.

Daniel Ricciardo attended the gala for his P3 finish in the World Drivers’ Championship. Norris was suited up as the titleholder for the World Karting Championship. Norris was the youngest to hold the title at 14; an accolade previously held by Lewis Hamilton.

Read more: George Russell’s Huge Claim About the Upcoming Season Will Greatly Please F1 Fans

In the same conference, Norris was asked if there was anyone he’d looked up to. The innocent answer was: “I don’t want to be picky or anything! My main dream is to get into Formula One. Just to get to Formula One is a big enough dream, to be honest. Anybody in racing motorsport I’d be happy with. I can’t really say who I like the best.”

A throwback to 2014 for Lando Norris and Daniel Ricciardo

Daniel Ricciardo had only just been given his seat at Red Bull for the 2014 season- a season he absolutely dominated despite having a four-time champion sharing his garage. Ricciardo finished third in his debut season with the team, reassuring them of their decision.

The year gave him his first victory at the Canadian GP, with two more to follow, five podium appearances, and some absolute class on the track. The Aussie had a thoroughly stunning season on his hands, one that could have given him his first world title.

Lando Norris, on the other hand, claimed his fourth karting championship, ready to make his way to Formula 4 in 2015. The youngest karting champion would go on to be the youngest driver representing his country in the premier class.

Norris‘ karting journey had brought in a lot of silverware for the young driver, who continued his championship-winning streak in Formula 4, the Renault 2.0 EuroCup, and Formula 3.

Now, the McLaren duo has an important task ahead of them. After the P4 finish in 2021 and a stunning 1-2 victory, followed by a season of highlights for the drivers, 2022 brings high expectations. With the playing field leveled, will the two boys sharing the stage in 2014 make McLaren a championship-contending team again?

Watch this story: F1 Driver Salaries Revealed: How Much Do Lewis Hamilton & Co. Earn?