Lando Norris has been praised for finding the “right approach” as he moves closer to winning his first F1 world title.
Back-to-back wins in Mexico and Brazil have given Norris a 24-point lead over teammate Oscar Piastri in the F1 drivers’ championship.
Norris can afford to finish second in all remaining races, including the sprint in Qatar, and take the title.
Piastri had a shaky start to the year, but his form peaked at the right time.
Suspension adjustments for the Canadian Grand Prix seem to have helped Norris turn things around.
Piastri’s only win over Norris since the summer break was at the Dutch Grand Prix.
F1 TV commentator Alex Jack noticed a noticeable change in Norris.
Over the team radio, Jack cited how Norris has cut down on unnecessary mistakes and improved his composure.
Norris started the race from pole position at the 2024 Sao Paulo Grand Prix, but finished fifth in a race filled with mistakes.
Max Verstappen produced a legendary drive to win from 17th on the grid, effectively ending his title bid.
Speaking on F1 TV’s post-race show, Jack said:
“And I think what’s really important is, as he explained, in the past we’ve made mistakes that cost us a tenth, but now we’re costing us hundreds.
“Comparing this to this racetrack just a year ago, we lost the lead right after the start and were constantly being asked on the team radio, “Where’s Max? Where’s Max? Where’s Max?” From start to finish, it was brutal to listen back to.
“Everything went away. Everything went away. And he worked hard to get the right approach at the end and did well in the pressure moments.”
Norris insists there is still a long way to go
With three rounds remaining, Norris is well on his way to winning the title in Qatar.
The next race in Las Vegas could be difficult for McLaren.
Las Vegas’ long straights, combined with cooler track temperatures, should give Mercedes and Red Bull an advantage.
McLaren struggled with pace at Monza and Baku, races won by Verstappen.
Russell won from pole position at the 2024 Las Vegas Grand Prix, giving Mercedes a 1-2 finish.
Norris isn’t crazy about his huge lead in the points standings.
“No. I feel like it’s another weekend where I came here to try to win and get as many points as possible and I did that. I did that last weekend too,” Norris said in the post-race FIA press conference.
“Well, I don’t think it’s a turning point either. Just having good results. That’s exactly what I need and exactly what I’m fighting for every weekend and every day.”
“I’m very happy, but we still have a long way to go, so there’s no point in getting too happy or excited just yet.”