Chuck Norris vs. Leclerc: Secret Fears Haunting Mexico GP Drivers

Norris Teases Ferrari Drivers About “Pro-Level” Fuel-Saving Techniques

Lando Norris couldn’t resist taking a playful jab at Ferrari teammates Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton during Saturday’s post-qualifying press conference in Mexico.

“I mean, ask these guys, they’re pros at it. These guys, they do it every race,” the McLaren driver quipped when asked about lift and coast techniques for Sunday’s race.

Norris, who secured pole position for the Mexico City Grand Prix, was referring to the fuel-saving driving method that Ferrari has reportedly been using throughout the season to prevent excessive wear on their cars’ floors.

“Yeah, I think you always have to do it a little bit, but never as much as these guys,” he added with a grin.

Lift and coast involves drivers lifting off the throttle early before corners and coasting into braking zones. It’s a technique that saves fuel but can cost precious lap time.

Leclerc, who qualified behind Norris, took the comment in stride.

“Let’s say I think we’re ready for this. It’s always a track where lift and coast is a big part of the race, especially for the people from second onwards,” the Ferrari driver explained.

He emphasized the importance of a good start at this particular circuit.

“That’s why I think the start is so important on a track like this, because when you have free air, everything comes a lot easier.”

The Monegasque driver made it clear he won’t be holding back when the lights go out.

“We’ll be quite aggressive into Turn 1 if I have the possibility and then manage from where we are. But it’s definitely going to be a big part of the race.”

Hamilton, now Leclerc’s teammate at Ferrari, kept his response much briefer, simply stating: “Not much to say. Lift and coast is pretty much what Charles said.”

The seven-time world champion did show some fire when discussing race strategy, however.

Hamilton suggested he’ll be taking an aggressive approach against pole-sitter Norris, claiming the McLaren driver has “more to lose” in the championship battle.

He promised to be “racy” during Sunday’s Grand Prix, potentially setting up an exciting battle between the Ferrari and McLaren drivers at the front of the field.

With Ferrari’s apparent need to manage their car’s floor wear and McLaren’s raw pace advantage, the stage is set for a fascinating strategic battle in Mexico City.