Have McLaren gone backwards or forwards? Lando Norris gives his verdict

Lando Norris believes positives can be taken from the British team’s start to the 2024 Formula 1 season.

Lando Norris expresses his overall satisfaction with McLaren’s performance at the beginning of the 2024 Formula 1 season, particularly highlighting his personal achievement of securing his first podium at the Australian Grand Prix.

While McLaren consistently posed a strong challenge to Red Bull in the latter half of 2023, they have been surpassed by Ferrari in terms of development during the winter period.

After the first three rounds of the 2024 season, McLaren currently holds the third position in the constructor standings, surpassing both Mercedes and Aston Martin.

Norris expressed his thoughts to reporters, stating that the gap between McLaren and Red Bull is not surprising at all. He also mentioned that being as close as they are to Red Bull is definitely a positive indication for McLaren.

Ferrari has truly made an impressive leap forward this year, showcasing their remarkable progress. However, it’s reassuring to see that we are not too far behind them. I believe this is a positive indication for our team.

McLaren seeks further improvements in their performance. Norris currently holds the sixth position in the drivers’ championship, surpassing George Russell and Fernando Alonso. However, Norris finds himself trailing behind his teammate Oscar Piastri, who currently occupies the fifth spot in the standings.

According to Norris, McLaren still has areas that require attention and refinement, particularly in dealing with the team’s challenges in slow-speed corners.

Norris mentioned that in the past few years, we faced difficulties in addressing certain issues. However, at present, our determination to tackle those areas is stronger than ever before.

Overall, I am quite content. Is there room for more happiness? Certainly, isn’t that the case for everyone? We constantly desire more, always striving to reach greater heights.

However, I believe that beginning the season in a strong position, with the awareness that there is still room for improvement in many aspects, brings joy to me. It is satisfying to know that we are in a favorable position and have the potential to further enhance our performance.