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Lando Norris Remains Realistic Over McLaren Title Hopes

Lando Norris plays down expectations of a dominant streak for McLaren despite the team's recent step forward.

By Michael de Vries - 2026-07-17T07:59:35.000Z - 1 min read

Photo: https://www.flickr.com/photos/78475089@N02/ / Wikimedia Commons ยท CC BY-SA 2.0

Although McLaren has impressed in recent times, Lando Norris approaches the team's future prospects with a healthy dose of realism. The British driver appreciates his team's upward trajectory, but for now does not see them immediately following in the footsteps of the dominant era enjoyed by Max Verstappen.

The discussion surrounding a 'Verstappen-esque' scenario refers to the ability to consistently perform at the absolute top and win races with overwhelming authority. According to Norris, such superiority, of the kind Red Bull has frequently demonstrated in recent seasons, remains out of reach for the Woking outfit for now.

Norris emphasizes that the team is working hard and making steady progress. Nevertheless, he remains level-headed about the immense challenges lying ahead. The Formula 1 grid is extremely competitive, and closing the gap to the front once and for all requires more than just a handful of good weekends.

It remains to be seen how McLaren will develop over the coming period. The driver notes that only time will tell whether they can deliver the consistency needed to make a genuine challenge for a world title.

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