Norris ready to challenge Verstappen for F1 title

Oscar Piastri has also declared his ambition to become world champion this year.

British driver Lando Norris, who is already considered a top favorite for the 2025 F1 title by UK bookmakers, is ready to take on Max Verstappen after testing his new McLaren for the first time on Thursday.

Last season’s runner-up, who finished behind the four-time world champion from Red Bull, told reporters at Silverstone that he has already proven he can beat the Dutchman.

Now, he plans to be even more aggressive and determined.

“I need to toughen up and show that I won’t give up any position easily. At the same time, I have to be smart. If you want to take on Max, you have to be strategic,” Norris stated.

“He’s fast, aggressive, and one of the greatest in history. The simplest way to beat him is to be even faster and stay ahead.”

Verstappen, now partnered with New Zealander Liam Lawson, remains Red Bull’s clear number one.

Meanwhile, McLaren, last season’s Constructors’ Champion, has two evenly matched drivers, both hungry for victory.

Oscar Piastri is equally clear about his ambitions.

“I want to win the world championship this year,” said the 23-year-old Australian, who will start the season in front of his home crowd in Melbourne with a potentially race-winning car.

“We’re starting fresh, and I truly believe I can take the title this season. A year ago, I had some weaknesses in my driving, but I’ve worked on them and improved.”

Norris admitted he feels excited yet calm and is embracing the pressure.

“I know Oscar wants the title, just like every driver. And he absolutely has the talent to do it,” he added.

“Everyone understands that we want to beat each other and be the best in the team. That’s natural, and that’s the expectation.”

Team principal Andrea Stella believes both drivers have what it takes to win, and now it’s up to McLaren to provide them with a competitive car from the start of the season.

“I’m looking forward to this challenge,” Stella said about managing the rivalry between his drivers.

“It means we’re doing a great job as a team, that our drivers are strong, and that our car is competitive. That’s a sign that we’ve succeeded both technically and on the track.”