Lando Norris heads into the 2025 Formula 1 season with everyone eyeing him as the title favorite. But the McLaren star is playing it cool for now.
“I’m excited to get the 2025 season started in Melbourne,” Norris said ahead of the Australian Grand Prix. “It’s a special track for me as this was where I made my debut with McLaren back in 2019.”
The young Brit clearly has fond memories of Albert Park.
“This circuit has been good to us in the past, and hopefully, we’ve carried our momentum from 2024 into this year.”
But Norris isn’t making any bold predictions just yet.
“We had a productive test, but we won’t know where we stand until Qualifying on Saturday.”
Interestingly, he doesn’t mention anything about chasing his first world championship. Instead, he focuses on the season’s competitive landscape.
“I think this should be a very exciting season with a lot of close racing. There’s going to be a lot of competition, which should hopefully make it exciting for the fans to watch.”
“I’m ready to get the season started!” he added.
## Piastri’s Homecoming
For Oscar Piastri, the season opener isn’t just any race—it’s a chance to shine in front of his home crowd.
“Walking down the Melbourne Walk and receiving so much positive energy is a moment that always gives me goosebumps,” Piastri revealed.
The Australian driver seems genuinely moved by the support he receives.
“The support I receive back in Melbourne is phenomenal and it still feels surreal to have so many fans shouting my name.”
Piastri doesn’t hide his bias about his home event.
“I’m a little bit biased but the atmosphere at Albert Park is always off the charts and with it being the season opener, I’m sure it’s going to be even bigger and better.”
For the young McLaren driver, this race holds special significance.
“It’s the first race I look for when the calendar comes out and the one that means the most. I’m a very proud Australian and I can’t wait to go racing in my home country and hometown in front of all the home fans.”
With both McLaren drivers feeling confident, the team looks poised for a strong start to what could be their most promising season in years.
