In an action-packed US GP where global stars brought the limelight to F1. Lando Norris got the last laugh. After getting one over a veteran F1 driver who has been throwing jibes at the British driver recently. Moreover, it seems like McLaren as well got one over this F1 icon, in pursuit of a mouth-watering prize money.

The F1 icon in question is none other than Fernando Alonso, everyone’s favorite ‘villain’ in the sport. It’s no secret that McLaren and Aston Martin have been having an intense battle over the #4 position in the constructors’ championship. However, thanks to a masterclass from Lando Norris at the United States Grand Prix, Alonso’s tactic of trying to get into the opponent’s head has not worked out, with McLaren finally marching ahead of Aston Martin in the championship.

Lando Norris triumphs over adversity: McLaren surges past Aston Martin in an intense US GP

Despite having multiple podium finishes this season, the media has often ridiculed Lando Norris. Numerous reports have highlighted how ‘error-prone’ Norris has been. And moreover, questioned whether he has the traits to possibly lead McLaren to a championship. However, Norris silenced his critics with an amazing showcase of his driving ability. Starting behind Charles Leclerc at the start of the race, Norris got a thunderous start as he overtook the Tifosi driver right at turn 1.

While he couldn’t keep the current world champion Max Verstappen at bay, Norris still showcased immense heart. After a tough battle with Lewis Hamilton, he finally finished the race at the #3 position, earning another podium to his tally. And to his luck, he and McLaren got even luckier. Disqualification for Hamilton and Leclerc due to post race plank cheeks saw Norris bumped up to #2. Helping McLaren finally overtake Aston Martin in the constructors’ championship.

On top of all this, Fernando Alonso “overconfident” jab turned out to haunt him. This time around, it’s Norris who was taking jabs at his team. A brutally honest Norris stated, “It’s been clear that Aston are just, I dont know, they have seem to made the car slower and slower with every upgrade they brought … what?” Ouch, look away Aston fans! the British driver is not holding back!

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Moreover, McLaren marching ahead of Aston Martin in the constructors’ championship was a pivotal point for the Papaya Army. Not only it serves as a moral boost but also as a significant monetary boost, as this year, the team that finishes #4 in the championship will reportedly earn $101, 700,000 in prize money. This bonus will not only help the team in covering the cost paid to Daniel Ricciardo to end his contract earlier but also benefit them in investing for the 2024 season.

Can McLaren realistically overtake Ferrari in the constructors’ championship?

McLaren is most likely to finish this season at least at the #4 position in the constructors’ championship. With their current form, can they realistically march ahead of Italy’s pride, Ferrari? Well, that is a question that no one has the answer to. However, with some sheer luck, and determined performances from Lando Norris, and Oscar Piastri, anything can be possible.

With only four races remaining, the task might be tough, but not impossible! Norris will have to act like a force to be reckoned with. His leadership, combined with Piastri’s resilience, will be the ultimate deciding factor.

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Lando Norris’s stellar performance propelled McLaren past Aston Martin in a thrilling US GP showdown. With Norris’s driving prowess and McLaren’s strategic triumph, the team secures a crucial position in the constructors’ championship race.