Lando Norris has issued a stern warning to Max Verstappen and the Red Bull Racing Team following his impressive second-place finish at the Japanese Grand Prix, with teammate Oscar Piastri securing a podium finish in third.
McLaren’s strong showing in Japan has heightened their confidence as they set their sights on the newly-crowned constructors’ champions, Red Bull.
Throughout the race, McLaren remained firmly in the top echelons of the leaderboard, even as Max Verstappen claimed a dominant victory that secured the constructors’ championship for Red Bull.
McLaren CEO Zak Brown expressed unwavering confidence in his team’s performance, and Norris and Piastri echoed his sentiments.
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Norris, seated in his car after clinching second place, delivered a bold message to Red Bull and Verstappen, declaring, “We’re coming for Red Bull!”
His words reflected the competitive spirit that fuels McLaren’s determination to challenge the reigning champions.
After the race, Norris expanded on his statement, saying, “Another amazing day for us, a P2 and a P3.
“My start was very good. I almost had Max.
“Max is Max as well, so I didn’t have much chance into Turn Two.
“But I tried, and the pace was extremely strong compared to everyone.
“We’re not close to Max, but we are not miles away either, so I’m very happy.
“Also for Oscar as well, it’s his first podium in Formula 1, so congrats to him.
“We’re getting there.
“We are pushing, and the progress we have made is pretty outstanding.
“I’m very proud of the team and the steps forward we are making every weekend.
“A first double podium together with Oscar.”
Piastri, who secured his first Formula 1 podium finish, acknowledged that it wasn’t his best performance but expressed immense pride in the achievement.
He emphasised his determination to continue improving throughout the remainder of the season, sending a clear message that McLaren’s ambitions are on the rise.
“It feels pretty special definitely,” Piastri said.
“I will remember it for a very, very long time.
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“I can’t thank the team enough for giving me this opportunity.
“There are not many people who get this opportunity in their whole life, and I’ve managed to have it in my first season.
“It wasn’t my best race ever, but it was enough to get a trophy at the end, so super happy.”