Lando Norris says McLaren’s top brass has played an important role in his development as a driver by always serving him an honest and balanced view about his performances.
The chaos at the start of the recent Hungarian Grand Prix put an end to Norris’ impressive run this season of ten consecutive points-scoring finishes.
The McLaren charger’s 2021 track record includes three podiums and reflects the Briton’s consistency and reliability as much as his speed, qualities that have carried team and driver to third in their respective championships although the papaya squad shares its position as ‘best of the rest’ with rival Ferrari.
Norris’ sustained development in F1 has been clear for all to see, and the 21-year-old says that team bosses Zak Brown and Andreas Seidl have provided him with the right level of support and pressure.
“I think it’s been hugely important,” he told Motorsport.com, referring to his relationship with Brown and Seidl.
“Having them support you in tough times and criticise you when you need to be criticised.
“It’s not all about trying to make you feel good but telling you the truth and tell you: ‘You’ve just got to be better in this area, and you’ve got to be better in this area’.
“But they just want to help you as well, it’s not like all you have to do is impress them. They also want to help you do a better job and maximise yourself.
“And it’s definitely helped me progress quicker, become a better driver. I still feel pressure from them, so it’s not like it’s easy and we’re best mates or whatever and I can get away with everything.”
“They’re still my bosses and I don’t want to make mistakes; I don’t want to make them look bad. And I’ve still got a job at the end of the day where I have to perform and go out and do a very good job.”
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Norris says that McLaren’s chiefs call it as they see, and their candor both ways has been a benefit.
“It’s also in those tougher times or the times you struggle, or the times you need that kick up the arse to go and do a better job in whatever area, that they give you that.
“And I think it’s a very good combination of these types of things that they’re able to help on.”
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