Ex-F1 driver asserts Lando Norris is better at only ‘one-lap speed’ in comparison to Oscar Piastri

Former Dutch racer Giedo van Der Garde has passed a bold verdict on Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri. The duo have combined to secure 476 points for McLaren, who currently lead the Constructors’ Championship.

Lando Norris has been one of the most promising talents for the Woking-based outfit ever since his debut in 2018. On the other hand, Oscar Piastri, who made his debut last year, has quickly caught up to speed, challenging the top drivers on the grid.

Is Piastri better than Norris after all? 'He only beats him at that':

– Over the last two Grands Prix, Oscar Piastri has outperformed his teammate, Lando Norris, raising the question of whether Piastri is the better driver. Former F1 driver Giedo van der Garde believes Piastri… pic.twitter.com/I3JOYnjhV5

— This is Formula 1 (@ThisIsFormu1a1) September 18, 2024

Giedo van Der Garde, who drove for Caterham in the 2013 F1 season, has stated that Piastri is the more complete driver when compared with Norris. He further said that the Brit is only superior to Piastri in terms of one-lap pace.

This guy [Piastri] basically has everything. Only if you look at one-lap speed, Norris is just a little bit faster. That's because of experience, but also just maybe because Norris has just a bit more talent. Just in everything else, Piastri is just better.

Giedo van Der Garde said (via gpblog)

Norris and Piastri have secured two wins each, propelling McLaren into a position of advantage. The two drivers will look to keep up their good form as the team eyes its first title since 1998.

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Christian Horner assumes Lando Norris as McLaren’s No. 1 driver

Red Bull team principal Christian Horner has spoken on the recent driver preferences within McLaren this season. He said that he considered Lando Norris to be the number one driver for McLaren and explained why he thought so.

Lando Norris, they're paying five times what they pay Oscar, so I would assume he would be their No 1 driver, or their biggest asset. So, therefore, the confusion comes when you're not up front from the beginning of what your plans are.

Christian Horner said (via SkySports)

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Norris and Piastri have been involved in their fair share of controversies this season. The two have since been reminded of their roles and asked to put the interests of the team first during their duels going forward.