Brown praises Norris for contribution at McLaren: 'Unbelievably fast'

Zak Brown expects a lot from McLaren in the new season. Besides the fact that he thinks the British formation will make a step towards the top with a competitive car, he is also confident about the growth that Lando Norris has started.

The talented driver has been with McLaren for several years and learned a lot during that period. In 2021, for instance, he proved capable of fighting among the top teams for podium finishes, while last calendar year's season ended in disappointment.

According to Brown, however, last race year had nothing to do with the qualities of Norris, who remains very ambitious. "He wants to be winning races," Brown stressed in conversation with ESPN. For instance, Norris would not be afraid of compatriot George Russell who is under contract with Mercedes. "I'm sure he knows he can beat George and he has beaten George before," he said.

For Brown, it is a joy every time Norris takes to the track. Whereas Daniel Ricciardo again failed to convince in 2022 and was told in the autumn that Oscar Piastri would be his replacement in the new season, Norris continued to rise to his level.

Especially in qualifying, the McLaren boss saw Norris' strengths come to the fore. "Unbelievably fast. He pulls it out in qualifying all the time. He can put a lap together. He rarely makes mistakes -- when he does they're very small."