McLaren’s Lando Norris says the team is utilizing his experience more than ever before as he mentors rookie teammate Oscar Piastri. In 2023, Norris will be the more experienced driver on McLaren’s lineup with Piastri conducting his rookie campaign.
Although the McLaren team has started this season slower than expected, due to its MCL60 car being too draggy, the team is working on addressing its weaknesses with a series of updates.
When asked about the dynamics of working with a rookie teammate and how it feels to be the veteran in a pairing, Norris revealed that “Maybe they lean on me a little bit more for the knowledge of how we were in previous years, to look at the development from last year to this year and things like that.”
Norris further stated that despite being the veteran driver, not much has changed between him and Piastri. Both drivers give their feedback and opinions to improve the car, with similar comments and complaints. While their driving styles differ, they remain aligned in most aspects.
Norris also praised Piastri, describing him as a “very fast” and hardworking driver who has been pushing him more than previous teammate Daniel Ricciardo.