Lando Norris: Max Verstappen won’t dominate in 2025

Dominika Jordan
Feb 13, 2025, 06:16 AM ET

McLaren's Lando Norris predicts a highly competitive battle for the Formula 1 championship in the upcoming seasons, suggesting that Max Verstappen won't be the only driver to watch.

Norris, who mounted a significant challenge against Verstappen last year by topping the podium four times and finishing second in the standings, acknowledges the Dutch driver’s dominance. However, he also anticipates a fierce competition from a host of other drivers.

"I don't think Max is going to be just the guy. I think it's going to be everyone," Norris stated. "So I don't think there's going to be any more interviews where I'm just talking about Max. I mean, I think when you talk about who is the driver to beat, then you would probably say Max, he's won the last [four] championships in a row. So he's definitely the guy to beat."

Verstappen's strong start to the 2024 season, winning four of the first five races, sets a high benchmark for his competitors. Norris emphasized that McLaren needs to avoid a slow start to remain competitive.

"I think we're coming into this season with our heads higher than ever, with higher expectations from ourselves because, you know, we've never started the season strong," he commented. "Quite simply, it doesn't sound good. And I'm not proud of saying that. But we've not started the season on the right foot at any point."

Norris remains optimistic and excited about the upcoming challenges. "Max isn't going to be the guy, it's going to be many. It's going to be all the others. And I'm excited to see what we can do," he added.

As the new season approaches, all eyes will be on Norris and his fellow drivers to see if they can dethrone Verstappen and create a more competitive landscape in Formula 1.