Lando Norris and McLaren aim to avoid last season’s struggles and prove they deserve their 2024 title by starting strong in 2025.
Lando Norris knows McLaren F1 can’t repeat its slow start from 2024. As the new season kicks off in Australia, the goal is clear: hit the ground running and defend the constructors’ title while aiming for his first drivers’ championship.
Last year, McLaren pulled off a stunning comeback, securing its first constructors’ title since 1998. The team started well behind Red Bull but turned things around with major upgrades, overtaking their rivals in the latter half of the season. Ferrari, however, pushed them to the wire.
Heading into 2025, McLaren is the team to beat, but Norris isn’t interested in labels—he wants results.
“I’m confident, relaxed, and focused on my job. But the season is long, so honestly, how I feel now doesn’t matter.”
He knows a strong start doesn’t guarantee anything, but it would make life easier.
“I feel ready to go. But whether we start well or struggle early on, it doesn’t define the season. We proved last year that we can bounce back.”
“That said, I’d rather not have to. We want to show we deserve our 2024 title by starting strong.”
One thing is clear: they can’t afford to be playing catch-up again.
“At times last season, we were over 100 points behind the championship leaders. That can’t happen in 2025. We need to start well, and I believe we can.”
“Formula 1 is all about progress. If you’re not moving forward, you’re falling behind. Hard work, no let-up—that’s our mindset this season.”
The Bet with Zak Brown Lives On
Norris isn’t just chasing team success—he wants his own title. And there’s a personal incentive too.
“After the Miami Grand Prix in 2024, Zak Brown and I made a bet. It’s still on. I said I’d win my first title in 2024 or 2025. It didn’t happen last year, so I’m doing everything I can to make it happen now.”
And there’s no backing out.
“We have video proof. It’s an undisputable bet. I’ll do my part to win, and he’ll have to keep his word.”
While a tattoo might be a stretch, Norris has a suggestion.
“If he was up for it, it should be something to remind him of our time together. We’ve been at McLaren for so long, growing with the team, celebrating last year’s success. It means the same to both of us.”
“Probably something simple. He can pick where, but it could just be the date, the number of wins—something like that.”
One thing is certain: if Norris delivers, Zak Brown better be ready to honor the bet.
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Norris Targets Glory: No Room for Another Slow Start Norris Targets Glory: No Room for Another Slow Start
