Despite looming title defeat, Norris views his 2024 F1 campaign as a success, crediting McLaren’s efforts in a challenging year.
Lando Norris revealed that his defeat at the British Grand Prix marked a turning point in the 2024 Formula 1 season, forcing McLaren to refocus.
McLaren enters the final three races leading the Constructors’ Championship, while Norris remains the only driver capable of overtaking Max Verstappen for the Drivers’ title.
However, the Briton’s prospects are slim, as a disastrous weekend for his chances in Brazil allowed Verstappen to extend his lead to 62 points. If Verstappen loses no more than two points to Norris in Las Vegas, he will be crowned champion.
Regrets linger in the Drivers’ title race, but Norris still considers the season a “success” overall.
When asked if being in a title fight demands greater focus every weekend, Norris said: “100%. Fighting for a championship brings a lot more focus.”
“I think that changed a long time ago, honestly. It probably shifted around Miami, after my first win of the year.”
“That’s when we realized this could be a year where things might start going well for us. It was clear at that point that more focus and effort were needed in every possible area.”
“Some of that came afterward, you know. We’ve had many races we probably regret not winning. Silverstone is likely the main one that didn’t go as it should have.”
“We look back with a bit of regret for not finishing in better positions than where we ended up.”
“From Silverstone onward, there was more focus from everyone, including the mechanics and engineers, because it became increasingly real—yes, we were in a position we had worked very hard to achieve.”
“I love it… there’s more pressure and a bit more nervousness, but I still feel very relaxed and calm about it all. As much as things can go wrong, they can also go well, as they have for us. We’re fighting against the best of the best, and it’s been a fun year. I think, no matter what happens, it’s still been a successful season.”
Norris, who has driven all his Formula 1 races so far with McLaren, admitted he’s still adjusting to competing at the highest level.
“I think I’ll always find it strange that I’ve made it to Formula 1. It was a childhood dream. Maybe it’ll take me a few more years to fully grasp it, to tell myself I deserve to be here more than thousands of other drivers.”
“But I still feel like not so long ago, I was watching this on TV, watching Fernando [Alonso], Lewis [Hamilton], Jenson [Button], all those guys.”
“Now, I’m the one in that position, so I still find it strange but extremely cool at the same time, and I always feel lucky and honored to be in the position I’m in, especially with McLaren.”
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Norris Set to Concede Title, Finds Positives in Season Norris Set to Concede Title, Finds Positives in Season
