Lando Norris says he’s determined to use Formula 1’s summer break to address the weaknesses and errors that he feels have proven costly in recent races.
Despite a strong start to the season, including a maiden victory in Miami, the McLaren driver has struggled to convert his pace and qualifying performance into consistent race wins.
Norris has started from the front of the grid four times since his Miami Grand Prix triumph but has only managed to finish second on each occasion.
The Briton currently sits second in the drivers' championship, 78 points behind dominant leader Max Verstappen.
Speaking candidly about his performance, Norris admitted that he needs to improve several areas of his driving if he is to challenge his Red Bull rival for the title.
“I’ve got to work on myself and work on a few things first,” he told
“I feel like I’ve had the car and I’ve got what I need around me. But I’ve made probably a few too many mistakes – I have made a few too many mistakes over the last month or so. I’ve lost opportunities. So I think I would like to do that.”
One area of particular focus for the 24-year-old is his race starts. Having failed to lead from pole or complete the opening lap at the head of the field on several occasions, the McLaren charger made clear that he must improve his launches off the line and uphold his momentum.
“It’s my starts,” he said. “Just some decision making, here and there.
“It’s small things that have had big, big consequences. A lot of stuff now in Formula 1, a small difference will have a big consequence because it’s so close.”
With the summer break providing a welcome respite from the intense F1 schedule, Norris plans to use the time to analyze his performance and identify areas for improvement.
“But I know that and I know I’ve got to work on my things and keep focussed. So that’s what I’ll use this summer break for – as much as it’s to disconnect, it’s to review a lot of things and make sure I come back stronger.”
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