“Little Did I Know That Lewis Would Still Be Here”: After Trumping Hamilton at British GP, Lando Norris Reveals the Reverence for His Countryman

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ByPulkit Jai

Jul 10, 2023 | 7:00 AM EDT

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Such is the case with F1, where inspiration can often be found in the rearview mirror. Lando Norris, from the Papaya team, credits Lewis Hamilton and Fernando Alonso as the influential figures who sparked his passion for Formula 1. Today, he not only admires them from afar but also competes alongside them, an experience he considers a great honor.

In a recent BBC article, Norris described Lewis Hamilton as “very inspiring” and highlighted the growth of their relationship. He expressed his respect for Hamilton and his accomplishments, stating, “He’s part of the reason I’m an F1 driver, so it’s weird thinking I’m now racing against him.” He also shared his excitement about McLaren’s one-off silver livery at Silverstone, calling it “kind of cool to relive what got me into F1,” as a callback to the original Hamilton-Alonso era Vodafone McLaren car.

#BritishGP 🇬🇧: Lando Norris says watching Lewis Hamilton and Fernando Alonso was “what made me want to become a racing driver today.”
“Little did I know that Lewis would still be here, 15 years later, and still going strong. Fair play to him.”
— deni (@fiagirly) July 9, 2023

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In a recent interview, Norris revealed, “Watching Lewis Hamilton and Fernando Alonso was what made me want to become a racing driver today.” He expressed his awe at Hamilton’s longevity in the sport, saying, “Little did I know that Lewis would still be here, 15 years later, and still going strong.” Norris’s respect for these drivers extends beyond their racing prowess. He appreciates their contribution to the sport, acknowledging that they have “created history and have been one of the best drivers ever that have come through Formula 1.”

Norris’s admiration for Hamilton and Alonso is not just about their racing records. It’s about the legacy they have built and the path they have paved for the next generation of drivers. As we delve deeper into this narrative, we explore the impact of these racing legends on the young drivers of today.

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Lando Norris and the Eternal Wish of a Driver of Winning Their Home Grand Prix

Norris, who’s from Bristol, England, has always dreamed of winning his home race, just like any other driver. However, this season’s circumstances make a victory at Silverstone unlikely for him. The 2023 British Grand Prix displayed impressive speed and skill, with Norris and Lewis Hamilton, both British drivers, delivering strong performances. Despite that, Max Verstappen dominated the race, securing his sixth consecutive win. Nevertheless, the British drivers still pleased their home crowd.

Norris started strong but Verstappen overtook him on lap 5. Still, Norris held his position and finished second, his first podium in 2023. Hamilton, starting 7th, secured third place, marking his 14th British Grand Prix podium, a record. Both drivers showed their competitiveness, although they couldn’t end Verstappen’s winning streak at home. Despite not winning, their performances were impressive and brought pride to the home crowd.

Their displays showcased their talent and potential. As Norris continues his journey, he carries inspiration from his heroes, ready to inspire future drivers.

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