Two-time world champion Mika Häkkinen thinks Lando Norris is on the same level as Max Verstappen. The McLaren driver is currently in his fifth Formula 1 season, but compared to other drivers his age, Norris has never really had the equipment to fight at the front. Nevertheless, Häkkinen sees a lot of potential in the British driver.
“He is a very fast driver, he has achieved a lot, or rather, he has consistently shown convincing results,” Häkkinen begins in an interview with Unibet. In the first race of the season, in Bahrain, Norris had problems and had to pit six times. That doesn’t detract from his talent. “He is super talented, no doubt about it. He is on the same level as Charles Leclerc, Verstappen and Carlos Sainz. He is at a very high level in terms of speed.’
No high expectations McLaren
Before the start of the season, McLaren admitted that their car’s development targets had not been met, leaving them behind. Nevertheless, the team is still aiming for a top four position among the constructors. Häkkinen thinks McLaren’s potential will only become clear in a few years. “I don’t think McLaren has very high expectations this year,” said Hakkinen.
“They know that their development department and their sponsors and partners are world-class technology giants,” continues Häkkinen. “McLaren has their support, but the team knows they’re not quite there yet. The result will take a few more years. They are in it for the long haul and have good partners. As I said, there may be some results this year, but I think the real achievements will be seen in a few years’, concludes Häkkinen.
