In recent months, Lando Norris has frequently come under fire. Formula 1 experts questioned his mental resilience, especially compared to teammate Oscar Piastri. Norris often appeared defeated and increasingly critical of his own abilities. However, with a pole position and a new lap record in Monaco, Norris seems to be back in top form. He assured that self-doubt was never really an issue.
This weekend, Lando Norris became the first driver ever to complete a lap in less than one minute and ten seconds during the qualifying for the Monaco GP. With a time of 1:09.954, he even managed to keep local hero Charles Leclerc behind him. Afterwards, a beaming Norris appeared at the FIA press conference in Monaco. This time, there was no sign of self-doubt. “I never doubted myself,” said the 25-year-old Brit. “I’ve been dissatisfied and I’ve been frustrated,” he clarified.
Social Media
“That’s just what happens when you lose,” he added. “Ultimately, you want to win, that’s what we all strive for. But I’ve always believed in myself and trusted that I have it in me. A day like today only proves that.” During previous qualifying sessions – think, for example, of the Saturday in Saudi Arabia – Norris still made costly mistakes. Partly because of this, he lost ground in the world championship, which is currently held by teammate Piastri.
One of the things that may have contributed to the success in Monaco is the fact that Norris has said goodbye to social media. The McLaren driver still provides his nearly ten million followers on Instagram with new pictures, but is no longer responsible for the account. “I still have my platforms, but I just find it a bit of a waste of time,” he explained. “I’m very happy that I made this choice, it leaves me more time for friends and family. Of course, there are multiple factors that contribute to success, but quitting social media is certainly one of them. I’m glad I’m rid of it.”
