World champion Lando Norris remains optimistic about McLaren’s prospects as the team heads into the Barcelona Grand Prix later this month. However, he is cautious about their chances at Monaco, a track that presents unique challenges.
Norris delivered a strong performance in the Canadian Grand Prix sprint, finishing second, but his race on Sunday ended prematurely due to a reliability issue. McLaren’s early strategic gamble on intermediates in Montreal also complicated their race, highlighting ongoing hurdles for the team.
Leading the drivers' championship, Kimi Antonelli extended his advantage with another Mercedes win, followed by Lewis Hamilton for Ferrari and Max Verstappen in third. Norris notes that Hamilton and his own McLaren teammate, Charles Leclerc, will be key competitors to watch in Monaco, where Norris secured a memorable victory last year.
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“Monaco is a very different circuit and last year it suited us well,” Norris said after Canada. “But I expect Ferrari to dominate qualifying because their low-speed pace is the best. Monaco is always special, so while I’m excited, I’m realistic given our current struggles.”
McLaren will mark a significant milestone with their 1,000th Grand Prix start at Monaco, unveiling a special commemorative livery for the occasion. Currently third in the constructors' championship, McLaren sits 113 points behind Mercedes after five rounds.
Team principal Andrea Stella acknowledged a tough start to the season. “It’s been challenging, definitely below our expectations, especially after Montreal,” Stella said. “We’re learning from every race and working hard to be better prepared.”
Despite the setbacks, McLaren remains committed to fighting for the championship, with Stella emphasizing their determination to keep the title battle open until the final race in Abu Dhabi. “We want to be competitive and make this championship count,” he added.