Lando Norris has expressed pride at becoming the McLaren driver with the most Formula 1 starts for the team, reaching 156 and moving ahead of David Coulthard’s previous mark of 150. Speaking ahead of McLaren’s 1000th Grand Prix weekend at the Monaco Grand Prix, Norris said the milestone was especially meaningful because his dream had been to reach Formula 1 with McLaren, and he feels fortunate to have played a part in the team’s recent revival. He said it is unusual for him to care about statistics, but this record stands out because it places his name alongside several of the team’s great drivers. Norris added that he wants to remain with McLaren for many more years and help the team continue fighting for championships.
McLaren’s fortunes have improved dramatically during Norris’ time with the squad. After years of struggle, the team has returned to the front of Formula 1, winning the Constructors’ Championship in both 2024 and 2025. Norris also secured the first Drivers’ Championship of his career last season, underlining the strength of McLaren’s resurgence. His progress with the team has been closely tied to McLaren’s rise back into title contention, and he said he hopes the success can continue well into the future.
Norris also reflected on his Monaco Grand Prix victory 12 months ago, when he won at the principality circuit for the first time. While he is not as confident about repeating that result this year, he believes McLaren still has a realistic chance of competing at the front. He said the team’s run into Monaco last season was stronger than it is now, but added that McLaren remains optimistic and will target pole position and victory if possible.
At the same time, Norris warned against overconfidence, noting that Ferrari and Mercedes have looked especially competitive. He said McLaren must stay realistic while still believing that success is possible. According to Norris, that balance has been a key part of the team’s recent mindset: aiming high without losing sight of the competition.
The British driver also questioned how well the Monaco circuit will suit McLaren’s current car, the MCL40, but pointed out that certain track characteristics could still play in the team’s favour. He referenced similar slow-speed, low-grip conditions on other circuits where McLaren has performed well. However, he admitted that overall form this season is less dominant than in previous years, which makes predictions more difficult.
Norris noted that Ferrari’s lack of straight-line speed is offset by its strong downforce and drag profile, which can be a trade-off that helps in Monaco’s unique layout. He suggested that advantage could be significant this weekend. As McLaren prepares for a historic 1000th Grand Prix, Norris enters the event proud of his place in the team’s history and hopeful that the next chapter will bring even more success.
