“Coming for Red Bull!”: Norris Sets Target on Verstappen’s Back as Teamwork With Piastri Completes Podium Haul

Aston Martin looked to be the closest competitor to Max Verstappen and Co after the first quarter of the season. McLaren on the other hand was nowhere to be seen near points, let alone talk about finishing on the podium. However, in a surprising turn of events, McLaren are now arguably the second-fastest team. As Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri make it a double podium for McLaren at the Japanese GP, the Brit sets his target on Max Verstappen’s back.

McLaren’s revival started when the Papaya team brought upgrades for the Austrian GP. The car was instantly turned around into a podium contender as a result of the upgrades. On the other hand, the likes of Mercedes and Ferrari were left stunned by the jump made by McLaren. Nonetheless, following another major upgrade that was available on both the cars at the Japanese GP, the Woking team grabbed a double podium. 

Verstappen still finished P1 a country mile ahead of Lando Norris in P2. However, that’s not going to stop Norris from dreaming about a win as he fires a fiery radio message toward Red Bull. After the race, Lando Norris on the radio said, “Nice job guys. Double podium – we’re coming for Red Bull! Thank you everyone in factory, everyone at the track, love you all. Another one. Let’s keep it rolling!”

Read More: With Eyes on $240,000,000 Extravaganza, Oscar Piastri’s Mother Respectfully Declines Zak Brown’s Enticing Offer

It wasn’t just a regular double podium. It was special because it was Oscar Piastri’s first podium in Formula 1 as well. Let’s see what the Australian has to say about his podium. 

Oscar Piastri on his first podium in F1

Oscar Piastri became the first rookie to stand on the podium in 6 years. Previously, Oscar became the first rookie in 10 years to lead a race. Whatever doubts there were around Piastri’s signing by McLaren, they’ve all vanished since the upgraded McLaren MCL60 arrived. While the Japanese GP wasn’t the most spectacular display of performance by the Australian, it sure was enough to get him a podium.

During the post-race interviews, Oscar Piastri said, “Thank you very much. It feels special, definitely. I’ll remember it for a long time. I can’t thank the team enough for this opportunity. It wasn’t my best race ever, but it was enough to get a trophy. The move on George, I knew I had to get past or I’d get stuck. The pace was strong after that. Excited to try and get some more.”

Piastri looks really settled in F1, despite it being his rookie year. With another 3-year contract extension at McLaren, the Australian seems to be making a name for himself & perhaps trouble the top guys like Verstappen & Norris soon. What do you think, will Piastri be able to challenge & beat Norris or Verstappen consistently?

WATCH THIS STORY | Is Oscar Piastri Already Justifying His Talent By Performing Better Than Daniel Ricciardo at McLaren?