Lando Norris unveils strategy to counter Max Verstappen's aggressive driving
What's the story
McLaren's Lando Norris has detailed his plan for the 2025 Formula 1 season, stressing the importance of establishing an early championship lead over reigning World Champion Max Verstappen.
Meanwhile, the tactic is designed to combat Verstappen's ruthless driving and stop him from "sacrificing himself" on the track.
The insight was shared as McLaren became the first F1 team to unveil their 2025 car, with Norris and Oscar Piastri driving the MCL39 at Silverstone.
Season review
Norris reflects on previous season's challenges
Norris was instrumental in McLaren's first constructors' crown since 1998, winning his first four races in the 2024 season.
However, he ended 63 points behind Red Bull's Verstappen, who won his fourth consecutive driver's title.
Additionally, the last season was marred by several controversial incidents between Norris and Verstappen, including a collision in Austria and controversial incidents at races in the US and Mexico.
Self-assessment
Norris acknowledges need for improvement against Verstappen
Norris admitted that even with a faster car for most races, he wasn't always at the level to fight Verstappen.
He called Verstappen "one of the hardest attacking-defense guys you can ever go up against."
Norris added that when a driver is willing to sacrifice himself for the overall outcome, it's difficult to beat them when you're 40 or 50 points behind in the championship.
Title contenders
Norris and Verstappen tipped as favorites for 2025 title
Norris and Verstappen are now viewed as the leading candidates for the 2025 drivers' title.
The 24-round season will commence in Australia from March 14-16.
Asked if he needs to make an early statement to Verstappen, Norris agreed that he must "get his elbows out" but also warned about not forgetting about the "long game."
Car reveal
McLaren become first team to reveal 2025 car
Earlier today, McLaren became the first F1 team to unveil their 2025 car ahead of three consecutive days of official pre-season testing starting in Bahrain on February 26.
Norris and teammate Oscar Piastri split 200km of permitted track time in a shakedown at Silverstone.
The car was presented with an alternative 'geometric camo design' in shades of papaya and black, instead of its official livery to be revealed next Tuesday at F1's special 75th anniversary launch event in London.
Contract
McLaren renew technical chief Prodromou's contract ahead of 2025 season
McLaren recently extended Peter Prodromou's contract as Technical Director, Aerodynamics, after their title-winning 2024 season.
Meanwhile, Prodromou, who took on the role in early 2023, was credited as a "key architect" in McLaren's resurgence.
Having returned to McLaren in 2014 as Chief Engineer, he now brings over 30 years of F1 experience.
The team sees his expertise as crucial for continued success in the Constructors' Championship. McLaren announced the multi-year extension in a press release on Tuesday.