There is no doubt that
McLaren are the form team in
Formula 1 right now. The papaya-coloured team are extremely competitive at every Grand Prix in the 2024 season, and after the final European race at the
Italian Grand Prix, the British team sit just eight points off Red Bull at the top of the constructors' championship, with
Lando Norris 62 points adrift of
Max Verstappen in the drivers' standings.
It will be a tough task for Norris to overhaul that big of a points gap with just eight races left. The British team will hope to close the gap once more at the
Azerbaijan Grand Prix this weekend in Baku after 12 consecutive podium finishes in 2024. Norris himself sees the potential to win the drivers' championship.
Norris "has every faith" that McLaren will close the gap
Speaking ahead of the Grand Prix around the Baku Steet Circuit, Norris said: "Our goal is clear. I have every faith in the team to keep working and improving. Now with both Championships on the table, we're more determined than ever. I'm proud of the team and can’t wait to see what we can do this weekend."
Teammate
Oscar Piastri also struck a positive tone, saying:
"I'm optimistic about what we can do as a team with the car we have. The upgrades have been working well and it’s clear that we are competitive at all types of circuits. We've been securing a lot of points in each race, and hopefully, this weekend will be no different."Team principal
Andrea Stella concluded the preview, conveying the same feelings that his two drivers share:
"We have a car that is competitive in every situation and two great drivers who are consistently delivering strong points for the team. We’re excited to get the final third of the season underway."