Lando Norris warned Max Verstappen and Red Bull that McLaren are “coming” for them after the Brit and team-mate Oscar Piastri both finished on the podium behind the Dutchman at the Japanese Grand Prix. Another impressive McLaren performance saw them enjoy the best results of the day outside of Verstappen, but Norris believes that they are getting closer to the newly-crowned constructors’ champions.<\/p>\n
While riding in his car after sealing a second-placed finish, Norris fired a clear warning to Verstappen and Red Bull as he said: “We’re coming for Red Bull!”<\/p>\n
Speaking after the race, Norris further added: “Another amazing day for us, a P2 and a P3. My start was very good. I almost had Max. Max is Max as well so I didn’t have much chance into Turn Two. But I tried and the pace was extremely strong comparing to everyone.<\/p>\n
“We’re not close to Max but we are not miles away either so I’m very happy. Also for Oscar as well, it’s his first podium in Formula 1 so congrats to him. We’re getting there. We are pushing and the progress we have made is pretty outstanding. I’m very proud of the team and the steps forward we are making every weekend. A first double podium together with Oscar.”<\/p>\n
While Norris’ team-mate Piastri admitted that it was not his best performance but he was proud to have secured a first F1 podium, a similarly striking warning if the rookie feels that he can only improve with the races still to come this season.<\/p>\n
“It feels pretty special definitely,” he said. “I will remember it for a very, very long time. I can’t thank the team enough for giving me this opportunity.<\/p>\n
“There are not many people who get this opportunity in their whole life and I’ve managed to have it in my first season. It wasn’t my best race ever but it was enough to get a trophy at the end, so super happy.”<\/p>\n