Norris drops McLaren BOMBSHELL as exit talks revealed......

Norris drops McLaren BOMBSHELL as exit talks revealed…….read more

Lando Norris has revealed that he turned down opportunities to leave McLaren during earlier stages of his Formula 1 career, despite the temptation of joining race-winning teams. The 25-year-old British driver, who had yet to secure a win at the start of the 2024 season, now heads into 2025 with four race victories, 26 podiums, and McLaren’s first Constructors’ Championship since 1998.

McLaren proved to be Red Bull’s strongest competitor throughout the 2024 season, with Ferrari also showing flashes of potential in the battle for second in the team standings. Heading into the season finale in Abu Dhabi, both McLaren and Ferrari had an equal chance of clinching the Constructors’ Championship. Red Bull was already out of contention due to inconsistent performances from Sergio Perez. While Ferrari placed both of their drivers on the podium, Norris, alongside his teammate Oscar Piastri, secured McLaren’s long-awaited title. Norris’ fourth career win played a crucial role in McLaren’s success, marking a significant achievement for the team.

Norris has now opened up about rival teams that had previously shown interest in him. In discussions that resurfaced after the Abu Dhabi race, he admitted that there were times when he could have joined other teams, potentially gaining race victories earlier in his career. However, he emphasized his decision to stay loyal to McLaren, a team he had built a strong relationship with. He shared that, despite the challenges and frustrations during McLaren’s leaner years, he always believed in the team’s potential and wanted to achieve success with the same team that had given him his F1 opportunity.

Norris acknowledged that he had opportunities to leave McLaren and pursue success elsewhere, but he wanted to do it with the team he trusted. Reflecting on the Constructors’ Championship win, he expressed that his greatest pride lay in still being with McLaren, adding that his belief in the team had never wavered.

McLaren, now enjoying the fruits of their persistence, have secured Norris’ long-term future. He renewed his contract last year, and along with Piastri, the team plans to retain their driver duo until at least the end of 2026. Norris’ success at McLaren has proven to be a rewarding decision, as he has emerged as one of the most successful drivers of his generation, now reaping the benefits of his patience and loyalty.