Lando Norris: We wanted to put an end to the rumors

Initially, Lando Norris’ contract with McLaren ran until the end of 2025, but today the team announced the signing of a new multi-year agreement with the driver. Lando explained that he had extended his contract with McLaren two years before the expiry of his current deal as he wanted to put an end to rumors about his possible move to rivals.

Lando Norris: “I extended my contract so early because I can afford it. I don’t want to worry about this subject for years to come.

There are conversations going on about the future and I believe this is the right time to put an end to that. Especially considering that in a few years the real madness will start before the regulation change when everyone starts switching teams.

My team and I didn’t want to be distracted by this, given the transition to new regulations in 2026. It is much better to focus your efforts on what really matters in the coming years.

I think it was important that everyone at McLaren was aware of my plans. I’m sure the staff don’t like it when one of their drivers is linked to other teams and that probably introduces an element of doubt. For my part, I wanted to do everything possible so that everyone at McLaren had confidence. I think this is the most important thing, so I’m glad I closed this issue by renewing the contract.

Now everyone at McLaren has even more confidence in my involvement with the team. They know I chose McLaren over Ferrari, Red Bull, Mercedes or any other team. Now everyone knows that out of all the rich choices I chose McLaren.”

At the same time, Lando Norris added that he did communicate with other teams, but that his contacts never led to substantive contract negotiations: “All drivers communicate with all teams. The point is not to agree on the terms of the contract, but to understand what a particular team has to offer you.

Everyone negotiates with everyone and discusses possible options, but in my case it didn’t go beyond conversations. We closed the matter quite quickly.

When I started seeing what offers were coming my way, I naturally had internal conversations with Andrea Stella and Zac Brown. We really wanted to put an end to some of these rumors as they could have a negative impact on the team. That’s why we came to an agreement so early and quickly. I hope all questions have now been resolved.”