Carlos Sainz Highlights Lando Norris's Key Advantage for F1 Season Finale
Carlos Sainz believes Lando Norris has a significant advantage heading into the F1 season finale in Abu Dhabi, identifying the circuit as a 'Lando track.' Sainz, Norris's former McLaren teammate, credits the British driver's exceptional speed and recent development into a more consistent, all-around performer. Needing a top-three finish to secure his maiden World Title, Norris's natural talent combined with his evolution as a driver positions him strongly against rivals Max Verstappen and Oscar Piastri, despite the immense pressure of the championship decider.
Lando Norris heads into the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix with a clear shot at his maiden F1 World Championship, needing only a top-three finish. His former teammate, Carlos Sainz, believes Norris possesses a significant advantage given the circuit, even with the pressure of a title decider. Sainz credits Norris's natural speed and recent development into a more consistent, all-around driver, making him a strong contender to secure the championship against Max Verstappen and Oscar Piastri.
Why it matters:
Ferrari's Carlos Sainz, a close friend and former teammate of Lando Norris, offers an insider's perspective on the high-stakes F1 season finale. His assessment underscores the unique challenges and opportunities Norris faces, particularly at a circuit Sainz believes favors the McLaren driver's strengths. This championship battle is not just a test of speed but also consistency and mental fortitude under immense pressure, with Norris potentially securing his first World Championship.
The Details:
- Championship Scenario: Lando Norris leads the Drivers' Championship by 12 points over Max Verstappen and 16 points over Oscar Piastri. A podium finish in Abu Dhabi guarantees him the title, regardless of his rivals' results.
- Norris's Recent Form: Since the summer break, Norris has secured five podium finishes in nine races, demonstrating strong performance heading into the finale.
- Sainz's Endorsement: Carlos Sainz, who was Norris's teammate at McLaren in 2019 and 2020, expressed his support and belief in Norris's capabilities.
- Abu Dhabi Advantage: Sainz specifically identified the Yas Marina Circuit as a "Lando track" and a "McLaren track," drawing on his experience racing alongside Norris. He recalled Norris's dominant win at the circuit last year (likely referring to a strong performance or specific race where Norris excelled, though Norris hasn't won in Abu Dhabi yet in F1).
- Evolution as a Driver: Sainz noted that while Norris's raw speed has always been exceptional—comparable to, and on good days, quicker than top drivers like Charles Leclerc and Max Verstappen—he has significantly developed his consistency across various tracks and conditions.
- All-Rounder Status: According to Sainz, Norris has matured into a more complete driver, capable of performing at a high level everywhere, a skill that comes with experience.
What's next:
Norris faces the ultimate test of nerve and skill at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. While Sainz's insights provide a boost of confidence regarding Norris's suitability for the track and his developed abilities, a podium finish is never guaranteed in F1, especially in a title decider. The race will not only determine the 2024 (as per original article, although 2025 is mentioned in a headline) champion but also highlight the culmination of Norris's growth as a driver since his debut. If Norris can execute a "perfect weekend," as Sainz believes he can, he will etch his name into the sport's history.