The 2025 Formula 1 season has exposed a growing divide within the McLaren team, with Lando Norris’ F1 performance now under intense scrutiny amid rising tensions. While Oscar Piastri claimed his third straight victory to seize a 16-point lead over Norris, former F1 driver Ralf Schumacher sharply criticized Norris’ cautious driving style, suggesting it is hampering his results on the circuit.
Schumacher did not hold back in assessing Norris’ recent form, contrasting it with Piastri’s confident surge to the top of the championship standings.
I don’t know what’s going on with Norris,
Schumacher remarked.
He used to be very determined in karting and other series, but he seems to have lost some of that edge. Perhaps he’s being overly cautious, too worried about losing points and ground, but it’s causing him to fall behind. He urgently needs to work on this.
The former racer also pointed out Norris’ struggles to defend his position, noting his vulnerability to overtakes, which rivals are increasingly exploiting. This weakness has intensified pressure not only on Norris but also on the entire McLaren outfit, as internal dynamics worsen with Piastri’s dominance becoming undeniable.
The unfolding drama within McLaren raises urgent questions about Norris’ ability to reclaim his competitive fire and mount a genuine challenge for the championship title. As the season progresses, the team’s internal battle promises to deliver high-stakes tension and fierce rivalry. For Norris, the clock is ticking to adjust his mindset and tactics, or risk ceding further ground to his assertive teammate in one of the sport’s most unforgiving environments.
