Being thought of the pre-season favorite can typically add but extra weight to the heavy burden a driver places on their very own shoulders – nevertheless, Lando Norris is aiming to win the F1 title in 2025 not only for himself but additionally to assist line the pockets of those that again him to take action.
Because the McLaren MCL39 broke cowl at a chilly and gray Silverstone on Thursday afternoon, the forecast for the upcoming season is way brighter for Norris.
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The 25-year-old is predicted by many to be the person who lastly overthrows Max Verstappen, with a number of bookmakers declaring the Brit because the probably champion in 2025.
Removed from being crushed underneath the burden of expectation, Norris desires to go one higher than final season, when he in the end got here up brief in his quest to say a primary world championship and wrestle the crown away from Verstappen.
Requested if being the favorite ramped up the strain, Norris replied: “No, I imply I hope they make some huge cash on me!
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“I really feel unhealthy if I allow them to down in the event that they put cash on me, in order that’s undoubtedly not one thing that may ever sway me by way of my strain, that persons are doing that sort of factor.
“I do know due to final 12 months, that is simply how issues have gone, as a result of as nicely final 12 months, these have been the expectations, the expectations for the crew and for myself.
“I am undoubtedly not feeling the strain of all of this stuff, I do know there’s the expectation and we now have extra companions and sponsors and all of this stuff and followers, each single one among this stuff provides to the strain and the nerves of all of it.
“I like seeing these issues, I like listening to them, I like that I’ve that sort of little bit of strain on my again, however on the identical time I simply hope I can exit and make some cash.”
Lando Norris, McLaren F1 Crew, within the storage
Picture by: Glenn Dunbar / Motorsport Photos
One bookmaker that considers Norris the recent favorite is Betfair, who has the McLaren man at +225 (9/4) to take the title this season.
“The 2024 F1 season was probably the most unpredictable in latest instances and extra of the identical is anticipated in 2025, with drivers from three completely different groups topping the checklist of favourites for the upcoming season,” mentioned Betfair spokesperson Sam Rosbottom.
“Having pushed Max Verstappen shut in 2024, Lando Norris is the favorite to win the title. Verstappen’s Purple Bull crew are predicted to drop in efficiency this season, with Ferrari and Purple Bull joint-favourites to prime the constructors’ standings.
“Norris and his team-mate Oscar Piastri each received a number of races final 12 months, however the Brit is clearly forward of his McLaren colleague available in the market. This might point out the British crew’s intention to prioritise Norris as crew chief as soon as once more in 2025.
“All eyes can be on Lewis Hamilton as he joins Ferrari, however he’s set for a troublesome battle towards established team-mate Charles Leclerc, which the latter is favorite to edge.
“Regardless of a robust finish to 2024, George Russell’s heads into his first season as Mercedes crew chief as sixth favorite for the Championship.”
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Lando Norris
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