Revitalized by Miami, Lando Norris shows his confidence for the future… while calling on McLaren to remain realistic in the face of an still uncertain hierarchy.
After a difficult start to the Formula 1 season, McLaren clearly raised its head in Miami.
Driven by a regained pace, the British team delivered a benchmark weekend: victory for Lando Norris in the sprint race, then a double podium in the Grand Prix with the British driver in second place and Oscar Piastri in third.
A result that contrasts with the first races of the year, marked by several retirements and a lack of consistency.
“Not believing in it would be ridiculous”
This resurgence in performance has logically brought a smile back to Norris, who now embraces a certain confidence for the rest of the season.
“We would be a bit foolish not to be confident after such progress this weekend” he admitted.
The McLaren driver highlights the magnitude of the step forward made, while reminding that Miami remains a circuit favorable to his car. An important nuance that prevents him from getting completely carried away.
Despite this positive momentum, Norris refuses to draw hasty conclusions. He reminds that competitiveness in F1 varies greatly depending on the circuits and conditions. He notably cites Mercedes, which remains a benchmark on certain tracks, including the upcoming Canadian one.
For him, a single weekend is not enough to establish a clear trend, and it will be necessary to confirm on circuits with very different profiles: urban, fast, technical or even subject to extreme temperatures.
Keeping feet on the ground
True to his temperament, Norris describes himself as rather cautious in his analysis. Even after a solid result, he prefers to adopt a measured approach.
“You must not get carried away after just one race” he insists, aware that gaps can evolve quickly in such a competitive season.
This lucidity is part of a desire to maintain pressure internally, to avoid any relaxation.
If McLaren seems to have taken a step forward, Norris reminds that the work is far from over. Developments are still planned, proof that the team continues to push to close its gap on the best. The British driver stresses the need to constantly improve, despite the encouraging signals sent in Miami.
One thing is certain: McLaren is back in the game. Now it remains to confirm… and convert the opportunity over the long term.