Lando Norris: "We never said we were going to avoid everything" on his rivalry with Oscar Piastri
Lando Norris believes it's not a question of « if », but « when » he and McLaren teammate Oscar Piastri will face off on track in their battle for the world title this season.
The Briton is trailing by 10 points behind his teammate after nine races, with Oscar Piastri having won the last event in Spain and delivering McLaren a third one-two finish this season.
A healthy rivalry at McLaren?
Before the Canadian Grand Prix, Lando Norris was questioned about the likelihood of an internal struggle, as it seems increasingly likely that the title will be contested between the two drivers of the Woking team.
« We never said we were going to avoid everything », replied Lando Norris. « I think we've even been quite transparent in saying that, sooner or later, something is probably going to happen. We just have to be prepared for it. Oscar and I are aware of it, we're competitive, we want to fight against each other, but what matters is that we stay united as a team. Everything is clear between us, everything is transparent. »
« We both want to win, we both want to beat the other, but in the end, there will be only one winner: the one who has been the most performant throughout the season. Andrea [Stella, team director] said it: it's not a question of "if," but "when." We'll see when that moment comes. Obviously, we'll do everything to prevent it from getting out of hand, but in racing, it's inevitable. »
Oscar Piastri at the forefront
Before Montreal, Oscar Piastri already has five victories this season and has only finished off the podium once, while Lando Norris has only achieved two victories. The latter also acknowledges that his teammate has progressed in almost every area compared to last year and that he will need to raise his game if he wants to stay in the title race over the remaining 15 rounds.
« It's his third season in F1. I remember that during my third season, you approach the year with more confidence, more knowledge, you become a more complete driver, » commented Lando Norris.
« That's what he did. He is very efficient, he drives at an incredible level, and he deserves everything he is currently achieving. It's a great rivalry between us. »
On his part, Oscar Piastri believes that the battle between him and Lando Norris goes well beyond this single season, and that it is crucial to preserve their good relationship for the future. There is clearly competition, the desire to fight on the track, but as we've already said, we don't want this season to be our only chance to compete for a world title, the Australian stated.
« We want this to last for several years, and the best way to preserve it is to have a strong team around the two of us. No matter how the championship evolves this year, we know it can define our entire career. »
« We are very aware of it. Of course, we want to fight and be world champions, but we also see beyond just this season. »
