Lando Norris Explains Motivation Behind Long-Term McLaren F1 Deal

Earlier this year, Lando Norris and McLaren penned a new long-term contract. In light of that, the British youngster revealed that he hopes to emerge as McLaren’s team leader soon.

The 21-year-old is currently in his third season with the Woking-based squad and his new contract runs until the end of the 2023 season.

He said, “That is my goal, that is what I want to achieve. I want to be that kind of guy to lead the team, who has been there for many years, who has helped them through the bad times and helped them achieve the good times.

“That is the kind of position that I want to be in and that is why I’m still here, that is why I signed for some more years, is that I want to be in that position.”

During his first two seasons with the British marquee, Norris partnered with Carlos Sainz and established a great rapport. After the Spaniard jumped ship to Ferrari, the team roped in Daniel Ricciardo to partner the Briton.

The Australian driver moved from Renault, with Fernando Alonso taking his place.

Lando Norris has been in red hot form in 2021

Even though Daniel Ricciardo is the more celebrated driver, Norris has been the one taking him to school. The young McLaren sensation continued, “Even this year, I have already taken a step forward in that position.

“I’m feeling like a different and improved driver [compared] to the last couple of seasons, taking on more responsibility and leading the team in more ways. So that is definitely something I would like, something that I want to be able to do going into the future.”

Last weekend, at the Monaco Grand Prix, Norris took his third career podium. Meanwhile, poor old Ricciardo ended up 12th and a lap down. The Aussie will be eager for redemption, while Lando Norris will be eager to keep his exquisite form up.

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