MELBOURNE - Lando Norris stated Thursday that securing his maiden Formula One championship has fueled an even greater hunger for more titles. The McLaren driver emphasized that winning the crown has not diminished his work ethic or his ambition.
Norris reported undertaking more off-season training than ever before, contrary to any assumptions of increased leisure. He described the feeling of winning a championship as addictive, akin to securing a race win, and confirmed his desire to achieve a second title.
While Norris won last year's Australian Grand Prix from pole position, the team's outlook for the MCL40 car's current performance is more reserved. Team boss Andrea Stella acknowledged they are behind Ferrari and Mercedes. Teammate Oscar Piastri also expressed caution about their early-season prospects.
Despite potential challenges, Norris remains optimistic, viewing a position of second, third, or fourth quickest as a strong starting point. He highlighted the team's proven ability to improve significantly over the course of past seasons.
This year's championship introduces considerable unknowns due to major overhauls in chassis and engine regulations. Ferrari's Lewis Hamilton anticipates the most challenging season yet, citing the complexities of managing power with more electrified engines.
Norris indicated he is still adapting to these changes and expects this process to extend well into the season. He anticipates needing until at least a third of the year, experiencing various tracks, tires, and conditions, to regain the level of accuracy he achieved previously.