Lando Norris Hits Back at Red Bull Criticism, Urges Focus on Their Own P….read more
McLaren driver Lando Norris has hit out at Red Bull following recent accusations of rule bending, advising the reigning champions to stop focusing on what other teams are doing and instead concentrate on improving their own performance. After a dominant run by Red Bull in previous years, the tide shifted last season as McLaren, led by Norris and Oscar Piastri, claimed the constructors’ championship for the first time since 1998. Their impressive form has continued into the 2025 season, prompting scrutiny from rival teams over the legality of their car.
In particular, Red Bull and Ferrari have expressed concerns over McLaren’s use of flexi wings during the 2024 season. These flexible aerodynamic components were believed by some to provide a performance advantage by adjusting to airflow in ways not visible under regular scrutiny. However, the FIA evaluated the issue and ruled that McLaren’s design complied with the regulations heading into the 2025 season.
Despite the FIA’s approval, the discussion has resurfaced following McLaren’s strong performances in the early rounds of the new season. Red Bull team principal Christian Horner has suggested that a new clampdown on front-wing flex, set to be enforced from round nine of the season, could help close the gap between the leading teams. But Norris has shrugged off those claims, making it clear that McLaren has nothing to hide.
“We respect the FIA for constantly reviewing the rules and ensuring everyone stays within the legal boundaries,” Norris stated. “But those past clampdowns didn’t affect us at all. Whether the upcoming one will or not, we’ll see. What’s important is we stay focused on our own development, rather than getting distracted by what other teams are saying.”
Norris didn’t stop there, as he also suggested that Red Bull themselves have pushed the limits of the regulations in various areas, yet McLaren has chosen not to make a public issue of it. “There are plenty of things Red Bull do that are right on the edge of what’s allowed too,” he said. “So if they want to play that game, we can as well — but we prefer to focus on ourselves rather than complain.”
The comments reflect a growing rivalry between the two teams as McLaren has emerged as a serious threat to Red Bull’s dominance. With tensions rising, the debate over innovation and regulation in F1 has taken center stage once again.
Norris’s remarks came after a rollercoaster weekend in Bahrain, where he experienced a frustrating qualifying session that left him starting sixth on the grid. However, he bounced back during the race, finishing third behind teammate Oscar Piastri and Mercedes’ George Russell. The result allowed Norris to retain a slim lead in the drivers’ championship heading into the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix.
With McLaren’s momentum building and the season heating up, Norris’s firm stance signals the team’s growing confidence — and their refusal to be distracted by off-track
controversies.
