Lando Norris must perform in Singapore to safeguard number 1 status at McLaren

Lando Norris could be at risk of losing his number 1 status if he has another disappointing race this weekend.

Lando Norris must perform in Singapore to safeguard number 1 status at McLaren

Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris (via IMAGO)

Lando Norris has emerged as a real contender for the 2024 world title against Max Verstappen. McLaren showed faith in the Briton and effectively gave him the number 1 status ahead of the Azerbaijan GP. However, Norris finds himself in a tough spot if he wants to retain the team’s support for the rest of 2024.

During the Azerbaijan GP, Lando Norris failed to make it out of Q1 on Saturday. Subsequently, the team’s hopes shifted to Oscar Piastri. The Australian driver did not disappoint and took a stellar victory after defeating Charles Leclerc.

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Now, heading into the Marina Bay weekend, Norris will have pressure to perform not only in his fight against Verstappen. But, the British driver needs to maintain the support he has received from McLaren over Piastri.

Oscar Piastri is hungry for victory in F1

Oscar Piastri has undoubtedly established himself as one of the best young talents of recent times. The 23-year-old proved his worth to the grid in his rookie season and now has further built on his strengths. With the win in Baku only emphasizing his strengths.

Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris (via IMAGO)
Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris (via IMAGO)

On the other hand, Lando Norris needs to show the world that he can continue to be the number 1 at McLaren and outperform Piastri at this crucial stage of the season. If Norris has a bad weekend in Singapore, McLaren would have to reconsider if it is even worth to back the Briton. Although, Oscar Piastri is still 32 points behind his teammate.

In the fight against Max Verstappen, Lando Norris is in the best position for the time being. If the Briton loses more points to his teammate in Marina Bay, things could get interesting for McLaren. However, Max Verstappen would emerge as the real winner. Nevertheless, the pressure seems to be only increasing for Norris this weekend.