Lando Norris Optimistic About Title Despite Season’s Challenges

Lando Norris admitted that he has not performed at a world champion level so far this season but remains optimistic about challenging Max Verstappen for the title. The McLaren driver trails Verstappen by 78 points with 10 races remaining, including this weekend’s Dutch Grand Prix, which resumes the season after the summer break. Although he acknowledged that mistakes and missed points have hindered his title bid, Norris expressed confidence in McLaren’s ability to close the gap to Red Bull’s 42-point lead in the constructors’ championship.

Norris identified small errors, particularly at race starts and during early laps, as factors affecting his performance. However, he hopes that McLaren’s car upgrades, their first since the Miami race in May, will help turn their fortunes around. Norris emphasized that the team’s cautious approach to upgrades has been strategic, aiming to avoid the pitfalls of hastily implemented changes.

Teammate Oscar Piastri, who trails Norris by 32 points in the championship, disclosed on Instagram that a broken rib, caused by an ill-fitting race seat, had affected his racing. The injury began during the Spanish Grand Prix and worsened through races in Austria, Silverstone, Hungary and Belgium but has since healed after adjustments. As Verstappen approaches his 200th grand prix, he reflects on being “beyond halfway” in his career.

He remains contracted to Red Bull until the end of 2028 but stays open to future possibilities including a potential move to Mercedes in 2026 with new regulations. Verstappen anticipates a challenging race at Zandvoort, having not won since June and recognizing the increasing competitiveness of the field.