McLaren driver star Lando Norris has spoken about his bittersweet 2024 Formula 1 season—a year of remarkable highs and frustrations over missed opportunities. Although he secured three grand prix victories, sept pole positionset 12 podiumsNorris remains conflicted over his failure to win the drivers' championship as Max Verstappen looms to claim another championship.
In an introspective and sometimes emotional conversation, Norris analyzed lessons learned, defended himself against harsh criticism, and issued a bold challenge for 2025: fight for the championship from the first race.
“It was a very good year—but I understand the criticism”
Norris admits the 2024 campaign has been his most prolific season yet, but it hasn't been without missed opportunities. Despite McLaren's remarkable progress in performance—transforming into a genuine contender after years of struggle—there were missteps that hurt its title chances.
“It's a really good year, but I completely understand why people think it's not,” Norris said. “I almost agree! But once you know the reasons why things happened, I’m still proud of the season that it was.”
From losing potential victories to Silverstone, Canadaet Hungaryto being outmaneuvered by Verstappen in critical moments, Norris acknowledged that he and McLaren could have done better.
“There were missed opportunities. It’s a fact,” admitted Norris. “But I’m happy with the whole season because it’s clear when things go well, how amazing they can be.”
Defending progress amid criticism
The pressure of finding himself in title contention subjected Norris to increased scrutiny. Although his pole-to-win ratio (three wins from seven poles) was criticized, Norris was quick to defend the progress made by McLaren and himself.
“It's tough when people think we had the most dominant car ever,” Norris said. “I was on pole by three thousandths or five thousandths, and those positions remain for the rest of the race.”
He also addressed comparisons to his 2020 comments about Lewis Hamilton, where he suggested Hamilton had an easier path to victory due to Mercedes' dominance. Having now faced the complexities of fighting for victories, Norris reflected on his growth.
“I always knew how difficult it was. But the harsh reality of living in this situation is even more difficult,” said Norris. “Even the smallest mistakes are magnified when you’re fighting at the top.”
“Next Year Is The Year”: No Excuses For 2025
As the 2024 season draws to a close, Norris is already focused on the next chapter. With McLaren set to secure its first Constructors' Championship since 2008, Norris believes the team's momentum sets the stage for a real title challenge in 2025.
“Next year is the year—probably the first since I've been in Formula 1 where I can say, 'We're fighting for the title,'” Norris said.
Having renewed his commitment to McLaren with a long-term deal, Norris feels vindicated for remaining with the team through its struggles, even though speculation has linked him to Red Bull.
“I'm very happy that I stayed with the team that I believed in, even when a lot of people didn't,” he said. “The fact that we went from where we were to beating Red Bull is an incredible accomplishment.”
Climb the Summit
Although Norris is proud of McLaren's transformation, he knows this season's shortcomings must fuel further growth. “There will be no excuses next year,” Norris said emphatically, recognizing the need to eliminate mistakes and capitalize on McLaren's growing strengths.
Whether Norris's 2024 campaign is considered a milestone or a missed opportunity will depend on his and McLaren's ability to translate the lessons of this year into dominance in 2025. For now, Norris remains optimistic—and determined to break through the next step.
“This season has shown what is possible,” Norris said. “But next year we have to make it a reality.”
