Jonathan FletcherMcLaren CEO Zak Brown states that signing a new contract with Lando Norris is the team’s “next priority” to counter likely advances from rivals on the matter.
Although he hasn’t secured his first win yet, Norris has established himself as one of the most complete drivers on the grid and a respected leader.
The British driver is sought after, having already been approached by Red Bull Racing in the recent past before they signed Sergio Perez. Therefore, McLaren needs to ensure they persuade their talent to extend beyond the 2025 season, the end of his current contract.
“Extending Lando is the next priority. There are many priorities, and certainly with Lando, we have time, but he’s a driver that everyone wants in the pit lane.”
“We have a contract until the end of 2025, some protection, as there will be a lot of movement in 2024. But we all need to start thinking about 2026 and beyond right now.”
When asked if a deal could be reached before the driver market picks up later this year, Brown replied: “Sooner… I think the market is already underway.”
Last year, McLaren announced it would continue using Mercedes engines until the end of 2030, with Brown revealing that the British team would have “more influence” over the German brand’s new power unit in 2026.
McLaren Confident in Future
Brown is confident about McLaren’s prospects as the sport enters a new era and believes this will be a key argument in negotiations with Norris.
“I think we’re in a great position with Lando. I think 2026 is an excellent opportunity for everyone to start from scratch, and there’s nothing we won’t have in 2026 compared to any other team. We will have all our new infrastructure up and running and optimized for at least a year or two.”
“Lando is very comfortable in the McLaren environment with his current teammate (Oscar Piastri). I think looking at who can be successful in 2026, there are four or five teams that you can say could achieve it, and we will be one of them.”
McLaren Lando Norris Contract F1. McLaren Lando Norris Contract F1.
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