Lando Norris believes he has developed a firmer stance within McLaren. The Briton stated that he now better understands the influence he can exert on the direction of the team in Formula 1.
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The change gained prominence after Norris renewed his contract with McLaren until the end of 2030. More experienced within the project, the driver understands that his role is no longer just to drive the car but now includes a greater participation in leading the team.
In an interview with Sky Sports News, Norris explained that in the early years, he avoided crossing limits when expressing his opinions: “In terms of how much power you have as a driver and as an individual, in the early years, you won’t cross any limits. I certainly won’t raise my voice above someone else’s,” he said.
Over time, the Briton began to see his role differently. Norris highlighted that he intends to be a voice for the professionals at McLaren and help the team seek collective evolution: “My role is not simply to drive the car. It is also to think about how I can be a leader, how I can lead the team, how I can be a voice for all the people who work here?” he said.
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Norris also acknowledged that he has learned to use his influence more directly, although without crossing the limits he considers appropriate: “I never want to abuse it, but at the same time, I know I am in a position where I can be firm to try to get what I want, from the car, the team, and the people around me,” he added.
The British driver continued, saying that knowing how to exercise this influence is an important characteristic for athletes in any sport: “You need to know how to try to get what you want as an individual,” he concluded.
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