No More ‘Mr.Nice Guy’: Lando Norris Warns Russell & Leclerc With Verstappen-Hamilton Example

McLaren driver, Lando Norris, is one of the most talented drivers among the new crop of Formula 1 drivers. But it’s not just his talent that attracts attention, it’s his character. Norris is one of the most lovable and friendly personalities in and out of the paddock.

But as friendly and jolly as he is, Norris suggests that if there’s a race win or a championship on the line in the future, he’s ready to sacrifice the title of ‘Mr. Nice Guy.’ 

Speaking in an interview with BBC, Norris described he is still close with his friends from ‘back in the day’, Charles Leclerc, George Russell, and Alex Albon. He said that the group of friends get along really well, but circumstances ‘always change’ when the competition increases.

“Things always change when you become competitive against each other,” Norris said.

He added, “We’re still in a friendly phase because we never raced each other.”

“But if all of sudden we go into next year and in the middle of the championship it’s me and Max and Lewis, I don’t think there will be as much Mr Nice Guy.”

Lando Norris could well be competing for the title next year

It’s true that 2022 changes in the car could shake up the pecking order as we know it today. But the rules are only making the cars more even, the talent and capabilities of drivers will remain the same.

Norris has got five podiums to his name in his three years of F1, but it’s his consistency with an inconsistent McLaren that speaks for his talent. Adding to that, he has comfortably been the better driver between him and his much experienced and successful teammate Daniel Ricciardo.

And keeping that in mind, Norris could easily be considered a Top 3 contender in next year’s championship, if, and this is a big if – McLaren can deliver a car that Norris can make the most out of.

So, with an attitude of a winner, a race-winning car, and the talent of a champion, there’s no reason Lando Norris shouldn’t be in contention for the championship soon.

Because, in Norris’ own words – “That’s just the way it works.”

Also Read: Lando Norris Joins Hamilton & Verstappen to Become the Latest F1 Resident of Monaco