Lando Norris expressed optimism after his initial test laps in the McLaren MCL39, the latest feat from Woking. The new vehicle, complete with necessary camouflage, was unleashed on the Silverstone circuit on Thursday. At first glance, the car didn’t seem to have changed much from last year. However, Norris, one of the favorites for the 2025 championship, revealed that the MCL39 has been improved in all aspects.
Under the guise of a filming day, McLaren drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri were allowed to sample their latest speed machine on Thursday. During filming days, teams are allowed to drive a car of their choice, provided they do not cover more than two hundred kilometers. After these test laps, Norris explained that the MCL39 is indeed an evolution of its predecessor. A number of key adjustments should make the McLaren team just as competitive as in 2024.
“There’s more changed than you might think,” Norris grinned to Sky Sports. “In the end, you’re trying to improve in every area, right? The car needs to be lighter, stronger, faster, and more powerful. That has been achieved. I think every part of the car has been worked on, everything feels improved. Sometimes it’s just small things, but at the same time, we’re talking about marginal improvements.” All in all, the McLaren driver responded positively. “It felt good. Plus, it was nice to be back in the car.”
New Title Fight?
“Of course, we are now the target,” Norris continued. McLaren crowned itself world champion last year, the first constructor’s title since 1998. “Fortunately, the team is doing great,” he added. “It’s good to be back.” While his team became champion in 2024, Norris had to concede to Max Verstappen. However, the 25-year-old Brit, particularly among British bookmakers, is the big favorite for the new season.
“I’m taking it step by step,” he responded. “Of course, I appreciate that so many people dare to bet on me. I’m focused on this year and feel good. After Abu Dhabi, I already felt that I wanted to continue, I knew I had to improve some things. I’ve proven to myself that I can become a champion. That has nothing to do with overconfidence or arrogance. I just feel that I can do it.”
