Williams’ Carlos Sainz has passionately defended his former McLaren teammate Lando Norris, criticizing those who have used the British driver’s sincerity about his mental struggles against him.
Norris has been one of the most transparent drivers in Formula 1 when it comes to speaking about his confidence and psychological struggles, beginning as early as his rookie season in 2019.
Back then, the McLaren driver admitted to battling nerves and self-doubt at the outset of his rookie year. In 2025, Norris has again been vocal about the pressure he felt adapting to the MCL39, acknowledging his perfectionist streak and the toll it took during the campaign’s opening stages.
While the 25-year-old has since turned his season around – taking multiple wins and closing the championship gap to teammate Oscar Piastri – Sainz has made clear he feels the openness of the Brit has been unfairly turned against him.
“He opens [up] to the media and to people more than any other driver on the grid – and people use that against him,” Sainz told BBC Radio 5 Live.
“What you see on TV is what he is as a human being. He’s very good at showing himself.
“I sometimes find it a bit ironic and a bit frustrating. He is probably the only guy being 100 per cent genuine on his feelings and the way he thinks but then people are going back at him.”
Other Drivers Keep It Hidden
Sainz underlined that Norris is far from alone in experiencing self-doubt or critical inner dialogue, but that few on the grid have been brave enough to speak about it in public.
“It’s a bit sad,” he explained. “Probably the 19 other drivers have a similar level of doubt and a similar level of self-criticism inside their heads, they just don’t explain it out loud because we prefer to keep it inside and not say it to the media.”
The Spaniard’s comments echo the praise Norris has received elsewhere, with Sebastian Vettel having previously described his willingness to speak out as “just progress” for the sport.
Backing Norris for the Title
Beyond defending his former teammate, Sainz was also bullish about Norris’ chances of clinching the World Championship this year, even if he acknowledged that timing and circumstance will play a role.
“If I base my decision on speed and talent, I’m 100 per cent sure he has that to win a World Championship,” Sainz said.
“But F1 also involves a bit of luck, mental resilience, being at home with a car in the right times.
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“It doesn’t really matter if he doesn’t win this year, he’ll get another chance. He has 10-15 years in F1. He has the potential, talent and speed.
“If he gets it this year, great I’ll be happy for him. If not, he might get his chance later.”
As Norris continues his campaign, Sainz’s defense serves as a reminder of the courage it takes to be authentic in a sport where vulnerability is often seen as a weakness.
With his talent undeniable and his mindset evolving, Norris remains a formidable force on and off the track.
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