Norris signs multi-year extension to McLaren deal!

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A day after it was revealed that Charles Leclerc had extended his allegiance to Ferrari, Lando Norris and McLaren have announced that they will continue their journey together in Formula 1 beyond 2025.

Norris's current contract with McLaren, signed in 2022, was set to expire at the end of 2025, leaving McLaren vulnerable to one of its rivals poaching its highly sought-after talent.

A swift strategic move by the Woking-based outfit was therefore necessary to lock in Norris’ services beyond the end of next season and counter any potential poaching attempts.

Although the length of the new contract remains undisclosed, it is likely to span at least two additional years, with the potential for further extensions.

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This significant investment in Norris highlights McLaren's belief in his ability to lead the team to championship glory in the years to come, and likewise it’s also a testament to the 24-year-old’s confidence in team papaya’s future potential.

“I’m delighted that we’re continuing our relationship with Lando for multiple years to come,” commented McLaren Racing boss Zak Brown.

“It’s been a fantastic journey over the last six years, and he has shown fantastic commitment and desire to push the team forward and get McLaren back to the front of the grid.

“Last season we saw the fundamental role Lando played with the impressive turnaround in results and I’m looking forward to continuing this push forward together with lots more podiums.”

Speaking about his new deal, Norris said: “It’s a great feeling to be staying in papaya. I’ve grown up with McLaren and feel at home here, the team are like family to me.

“The journey so far has been exciting, we’ve had ups and downs, but last season showed our desire to get back to competing at the front of the grid.

“The work Zak, Andrea and the whole team have put in over the last year has been incredible and I’m confident in challenging for wins with McLaren.

“I’m excited to create more amazing memories and continue working hard with everyone at MTC for the next few years.”

Norris will be flanked by teammate Oscar Piastri until the end of 2026, the pair forming one of the most talented line-ups on the F1 grid as McLaren team principal Andrea Stella underscored.

“This reflects the commitment and confidence we have together, with our shared ambition to ultimately win championships again in the future,” added the Italian.

“Lando has grown as a driver and a person since initially joining McLaren in 2017. He impressed last season, playing an important role in our progress throughout the year, securing seven podiums with many fantastic drives.

“Alongside Oscar, our exciting driver pairing will play an instrumental part in our objective to move towards the front of the grid.

"They have impressed in their first season together and I’m looking forward to continuing the hard work with them both on this exciting journey.”

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.