McLarn’s Lando Norris ready for the championship push: “I feel good and motivated”. Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri share their thoughts ahead of the Las Vegas Grand Prix.

Las Vegas, Norris eyes the title

The F1 World Championship is approaching its climax, with McLaren hoping to wrap up the title in Las Vegas and secure their first drivers’ championship in 17 years. In Nevada, Lando Norris has at least the chance to eliminate reigning world champion Max Verstappen from the title fight — no small feat given the Dutch superstar’s strength and the track layout, which did not favor McLaren last year.

Team principal Andrea Stella believes the McLaren squad has overcome past difficulties on low downforce circuits. However, Red Bull has historically been superior on these types of tracks. In addition, there is a Mercedes that performed exceptionally well here in 2024 and a Ferrari that has achieved three podiums over the past two years. That is why, for once, Lando Norris does not feel like the favorite.

Norris speaks

“Driving along the Strip is an incredible experience, and I can’t wait to meet all the fans in the United States one last time this season,” commented the championship leader. “I have prepared thoroughly with the team at the McLaren Technology Centre for the final triple-header. We arrive in Las Vegas after working hard to secure a strong haul of points in the last two races, showing excellent pace in Mexico and Brazil. The track has been challenging for us in the past, but that doesn’t mean we won’t give our all to maximize the car’s performance. I feel really good and motivated. I am ready for this final sprint.”

Oscar Piastri’s perspective

Adding to the challenge for Norris will be teammate Oscar Piastri, who faces a last-ditch effort to rescue a championship that seemed well within his reach until Zandvoort. The Australian, trailing his teammate by 24 points, needs to return to form. “I can’t wait to get back on track. I’m focusing on performance, aiming to build a strong weekend and take full advantage of every opportunity. It’s a high-speed circuit and always fun to race along the Strip. The cooler weather conditions are an interesting variable, and the layout usually allows for plenty of overtaking,” Oscar Piastri said.