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McLaren team principal Andrea Stella has pushed back against Lando Norris' concerns heading into the Las Vegas Grand Prix. Norris said earlier this week that McLaren still lacked enough information to be confident about its performance on the Strip Circuit. Stella now insists the team is better prepared than it was last year and has gathered the data it needs.
McLaren struggled at Las Vegas in 2023, battling tyre warm-up issues, low grip and unpredictable balance across the weekend. This year, however, the team arrives as a title contender with two in-form drivers and a car that has performed strongly on a wide variety of circuits.
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Norris’ remarks sparked discussion among fans, especially as the Briton often speaks candidly about McLaren’s weaknesses. But Stella believes those worries are outdated.
“We Understand the Circuit Better Than Last Year”
Speaking to Sky Sports, Stella explained why the team is more optimistic this time. “We have analysed everything from last season very carefully. We know where we struggled and why. We have the information now.”
He added that McLaren has prepared specifically for the challenges of Las Vegas. “The tyres, the temperatures, the surface, the long straights, we have simulated all of it in detail. That was not the case last year.”
Norris Still Cautious but Encouraged
Stella acknowledged that Norris’ caution comes from experience. “Lando is right to highlight areas of concern. Last year was difficult. But this car is very different, and our tools and understanding are much stronger.”
Norris also clarified that he is not pessimistic, merely realistic. The McLaren driver expects the team to be competitive but wants to avoid overconfidence in a race with so many variables.
McLaren Confident Heading Into the Weekend
With both McLaren drivers fighting for the championship, the team knows the importance of nailing every session. Stella says the main goal is to start the weekend strongly. “If we get into the right window early, we will be in the mix. The car has shown it can perform almost everywhere.”
As the title battle intensifies, McLaren hopes that preparation will give Norris and Oscar Piastri an early advantage in what could be one of the most unpredictable races of the season.
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