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Lando Norris remains optimistic about McLaren’s 2024 season, even if he falls short of clinching the championship title from Red Bull’s Max Verstappen. Heading into the United States Grand Prix, Norris trails Verstappen by 52 points with six races remaining.
Despite the gap, the Briton considers the season a success. “We’re fighting against the best of the best, but no matter what, it has still been a successful season,” Norris said, reflecting on the progress McLaren has made throughout the year.
Norris recently triumphed at the Singapore Grand Prix, where Verstappen finished second, and has steadily reduced the points deficit from 78 after the Belgian Grand Prix.
“If I finish second, it’s because Red Bull and Max have done a better job,” Norris remarked, recognizing the challenge posed by Red Bull. “We started the season a long way behind. Everyone thought Max was going to have an easy win. For that not to be the case after the gap they had after race one, it’s still a year to be proud of.”
While Verstappen has secured seven race victories to Norris’ three this season, Norris believes McLaren’s resurgence shows they are now contenders. “We are a top team and fighting for drivers’ and constructors’ championships,” he said, noting the team’s progress since his first win in Miami.
Norris also admitted that missed opportunities, such as at Silverstone, have prevented McLaren from closing the gap quicker. “We look back on that with a bit of regret,” he said of races where they could have finished stronger. Nonetheless, the British driver is confident they can maintain their momentum.
As the season winds down, Verstappen remains cautious about his title chances, acknowledging that “nothing is guaranteed” and stressing that every upcoming race is crucial. Norris, meanwhile, is keeping his focus on continuing his strong form: “It’s not easy, but I can’t change that. I just keep my head down and focus on myself.”
