Lando Norris is set for a potentially stronger performance at the Mexican Grand Prix this season compared to last year, where he faced significant challenges during qualifying. Last year, Norris struggled with various issues that relegated him to 17th on the starting grid. However, he made a remarkable recovery during the race, finishing in fifth place after advancing 12 positions. His team principal, Andrea Stella, has emphasized the importance of replicating the competitive pace demonstrated in 2023 as they head into this weekend’s race.
This season, Norris is in a favorable position, starting third on the grid, behind Carlos Sainz and Max Verstappen. This advantageous starting position increases his chances of earning a significant number of points, including the possibility of securing a podium finish. Despite this optimism, Stella has reiterated the need for Norris to drive with the same tenacity and skill that he displayed last season, highlighting the team’s goal of achieving a strong points haul.
Stella believes the car’s race pace has historically been competitive at the Mexican circuit, and current assessments indicate that this trend is likely to continue. He expressed confidence that McLaren has the conditions necessary to succeed in this race, urging Norris to leverage the car’s capabilities effectively. Although Norris is currently 57 points behind Verstappen in the Drivers’ Championship, he will face stiff competition from Ferrari, who are keen to build on their recent success after a 1-2 finish at the United States Grand Prix.
In discussing competitors, Stella acknowledged Ferrari as a credible threat for the championship, particularly following their performance upgrades earlier in the season. He noted that while McLaren is primarily focused on their own performance, they must also keep an eye on Ferrari’s advancements. Stella remarked that Ferrari has shown a strong pace recently, positioning them as a formidable rival in the championship battle.
As the Mexican Grand Prix approaches, McLaren, Red Bull, and Ferrari are closely positioned in the Constructors’ Championship, with only 48 points separating the three teams. McLaren currently leads with a 40-point advantage over Red Bull, while Ferrari trails by an additional eight points. With a significant number of points still available, the upcoming race will be crucial for all three teams as they compete for dominance in the championship standings.
