Lando Norris is at a critical juncture in his Formula 1 career as he vies for the 2024 championship. Despite McLaren’s advancements, Norris missed crucial opportunities at the U.S. Grand Prix in Austin. To stay competitive, he must adopt certain aspects of Max Verstappen’s aggressive driving style, a trait that has consistently allowed Verstappen to prevail in tight, high-stakes situations.
McLaren’s MCL38 has been one of the fastest and most adaptable cars on the 2024 grid, often competing with the likes of Red Bull, Ferrari, and Mercedes. However, McLaren’s dominance hasn’t been consistent across all races. While the car performed exceptionally at tracks like Zandvoort and Singapore, other circuits have proven more challenging. This inconsistency was clear in Austin, where Norris managed pole position but was unable to secure a win, with Ferrari taking control of the race.
In Austin, the differences between Norris and Verstappen became apparent. While Norris led the race early, he couldn’t hold his ground, unlike Verstappen, who delivered a masterclass in defensive driving. Verstappen’s aggression at the start and his ability to fend off challenges reflected his experience in dealing with pressure—qualities that separate him from even the most talented of drivers.
Throughout the season, many have questioned whether Norris possesses the qualities needed to compete at the top level of Formula 1. His raw speed and skill are undeniable, but achieving success in F1 requires more than talent—it demands mental toughness. Verstappen, having battled Lewis Hamilton in the intense 2021 season, has proven he can handle extreme pressure. Norris, in comparison, is still learning how to manage the psychological demands of a title fight.
One of the most striking differences between Norris and Verstappen is their mental approach to racing. While Norris believes he can win if the circumstances allow, Verstappen’s confidence is absolute—he knows he can win, no matter the situation. This unshakable self-belief gives Verstappen a psychological edge over his rivals, enabling him to maintain aggression and composure even in the most difficult moments.
Verstappen’s position in the championship standings also provides him with greater freedom on track. With a solid points lead, he can afford to take risks that Norris cannot. In Austin, Verstappen’s ability to withstand pressure and drive flawlessly showed this advantage, whereas Norris made costly mistakes under pressure from Carlos Sainz during the Sprint race. This contrast highlighted the gap in experience and mental resilience between the two drivers.
Helmut Marko’s recent remarks about Norris’ temperament have added to the pressure on the British driver. Marko’s observations, though perhaps meant as harmless, raised questions about whether Norris has the right mindset to compete with someone like Verstappen. Norris has shown flashes of the necessary aggression, especially in moments of frustration, but he often retreats, perhaps influenced by his friendship with Verstappen. To reach the top, Norris may need to focus solely on his racing ambitions, even at the cost of personal relationships.
Compounding Norris’ challenges is the presence of his teammate, Oscar Piastri. While Piastri has not been as consistent as Norris, he has shown remarkable poise under pressure. His ability to stay calm in tough situations, even when racing against top drivers, indicates that he could become a serious contender in the future. If McLaren remains competitive in 2025, Piastri might become a rival not just to Verstappen, but to Norris within the team itself.
For Norris, the path to defeating Verstappen lies in adopting a more ruthless and focused approach, similar to the mindset that has made Verstappen so successful. This may require him to put aside friendships and even team dynamics in order to prioritize his own success. If Norris is unable to develop this level of mental toughness, he risks losing his best chance at the championship, especially as Piastri continues to improve and could soon challenge for McLaren’s top spot.
