According to Mika Hakkinen, Lando Norris is on the same level as Max Verstappen

At the Bahrain Grand Prix, Lando Norris and Max Verstappen had completely opposite races: the British driver had a difficult race finishing 17th, while the Dutch driver dominated the race from start to finish without being challenged. However, according to Mika Hakkinen, their level is equal.

Lando Norris at a very high level

The double world champion with McLaren speaks highly of Lando Norris. He emphasizes above all his speed on the track and his consistency in terms of results. « He is a very fast driver who has already achieved a lot. He consistently shows convincing results », highlights the Finn. To the point that he considers him on the same level as the top dogs in the paddock like Max Verstappen or Charles Leclerc. « He is on the same level as Verstappen, Leclerc, and Sainz. He is of a very high standard if you look at his speed ».

For him, there is no doubt, Norris is the leader of McLaren. Since his arrival in F1, the British driver has stepped onto the podium six times. His best championship result is sixth place, in 2021. In the past two years, he has never been challenged by his teammate Daniel Ricciardo, whom he has almost consistently outperformed in every race. However, the situation might possibly change with Oscar Piastri.

Oscar Piastri, McLaren’s great find?

For the moment, Oscar Piastri has only competed in one Formula 1 Grand Prix, resulting in a retirement. But Mika Hakkinen is not worried about his gap in progress for his future with McLaren. Under Zak Brown, Piastri will have room to develop. The team has a lot of data to further assist him, but I don’t think he will have any issues, declares the Finnish driver.

He thinks that the recruitment of the Australian is good news and that he will team up with Lando Norris. They are probably only a few tenths apart and it will only motivate them even more. It’s a good package.