F1 News, Reports and Race Results

Norris set for 'difficult time' with Ricciardo - Coulthard

X (Twitter)X (Twitter)
FacebookFacebook
WhatsappWhatsapp

Former F1 driver David Coulthard believes Lando Norris is set for a "difficult time" this year with new McLaren teammate Daniel Ricciardo, but insists the challenge facing the young gun is also an opportunity.

Ricciardo has moved to McLaren after two years with Renault and with the ambition of eventually returning along with his new team to the top step of the podium.

The Aussie replaces Norris' former side-kick Carlos Sainz, now with Ferrari. Williams' George Russell recently said that his "incredibly fast" good friend Norris will give Ricciardo more than a run for his money at McLaren, but Coulthard suggests the 21-year-old will be facing an important test this season.

©McLaren

"This is a great test for Lando," the Channel 4 commentator told The Sun.

"In Carlos he had a quick team-mate but also one that was pretty easy going and part of knowing your competitors is knowing your team-mate.

"And with Daniel, he's easy-going off track but he is pretty ruthless on track and has that racer's heart and edge, which we saw come out when he was alongside Max and Seb.

"It will be a difficult time for Lando. But it’s also a great opportunity for him to step up and show he can get his elbows out."

Last week, ahead of pre-season testing, Norris commented on his potential rivalry with Ricciardo, insisting he was expecting a "fierce" opposition from the latter, but admitting he was up for the challenge and "excited" to do battle.

"I think it will be a fierce battle between us," he said. "I’m excited for the team-mate rivalry we’ll have, which will obviously be a good one, but he’s still a guy I can learn from.

"That won’t change race results or how we both go racing. We are both still learning every day and improving our driving and that’s what I’m excited for."

Gallery: The beautiful wives and girlfriends of F1 drivers

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter

Michael Delaney

Recent Posts

Ferrari employees celebrate record year with windfall bonus!

Ferrari enjoyed a strong campaign in F1 last year, but the company also demonstrated its…

10 hours ago

Brawn GP championship-winning car set for Miami auction

A striking piece of Formula 1 history is hitting the auction block at next May's…

11 hours ago

F1 toasts to 75 Years with Moët & Chandon’s triumphant comeback

In a fitting tribute to Formula 1's rich history, Moët & Chandon, the renowned luxury…

12 hours ago

Aston Martin confirms launch date for 2025 challenger

Aston Martin F1 has confirmed that it will pull the covers off its 2025 challenger,…

14 hours ago

The last of Grand Prix racing's privateers

Turning 69 on this day is Hector Rebaque, who was Mexico's last F1 driver for…

15 hours ago

Zhou Guanyu joins Ferrari as reserve driver for 2025

Ferrari has confirmed that former Sauber F1 charger Zhou Guanyu will take on a reserve…

16 hours ago