Norris Shows Character in Austria: McLaren Celebrates Dominance in F1

Andrea Stella Praises Lando Norris’ Resilience After the Austrian Grand Prix

McLaren team principal Andrea Stella has expressed his admiration for the mental fortitude of Lando Norris, who recovered from an incident and subsequent retirement in Canada to lead a historic 1-2 for McLaren at the Austrian Grand Prix. Stella highlighted that, despite his progress, Norris still needs to “refine some aspects” to establish himself as an elite driver in a Formula 1 season that is shaping up as a battle for the title between the two McLaren drivers, including Oscar Piastri. Norris had to defend against Piastri to secure the victory, two weeks after the crash that forced him to retire in Montreal.

The result [in Canada] was unfortunate because Lando couldn’t finish the race. It was simply a misjudgment. The way Lando handled that, I think, demonstrated his character.

Andrea Stella

Stella also highlighted Norris’s speed, mentioning his pole position in Monaco and his performance in Canada and Austria. “We just need to polish a few things in the executions and results, which is what Lando demonstrated today. I am very proud of Lando, very proud of how everyone handled the situation in Canada and the fact that we finished united and stronger,” he stated.

Lando Norris recovered from his accident in Canada with a masterful drive to achieve victory in Austria.The leaders of the constructors’ championship avoided another accident on the track, with Piastri expressing his apologies over the radio after a near miss. Stella commented on the situation, pointing out that there was a moment at turn four where the two cars were too close due to a lock-up by Piastri. Furthermore, he praised Piastri’s reaction, who apologized immediately after crossing the finish line. Norris’ victory reduced the gap to Piastri at the top of the drivers’ standings to 15 points, ahead of the home race in Great Britain next week. Stella hopes that Norris, a seven-time race winner, can achieve consecutive victories in the same F1 season.

In terms of Lando being able to do it, yes, of course. There is absolutely no reason why not, due to the talent, the quality, the race ability and even the trajectory that Lando is on. The most important thing is the consecutive victory for McLaren.

Andrea Stella