Jenson Button identifies critical Lando Norris 'mental health' juncture

Jenson Button has highlighted the importance of Lando Norris' response to his clash with Oscar Piastri in Canada. Norris collided with the rear of Piastri's car in the final stages of the Canadian Grand Prix last weekend, resulting in his elimination from the race. It marked Norris' first non-finish of the year and cost him critical points in the title fight, with his deficit to Piastri now sitting at 22. Having held up his hands and admitted fault for the crash, Button stated Norris' response to the setback will be a clear reflection of his mental strength. “This is the moment whether we see Lando is in a good mental place and whether he will come out of the other side strong,” 2009 F1 champion Button said, as quoted by Sky Sports F1 . “I think he has, in terms of being confident in his ability and putting it all out there, so I'm excited to see him move on.” Both drivers have spoken about wishing to retain harmony within the team going forward and not burn the squad's positive atmosphere so early on in its title-contending position. However, Button detailed that there is no guarantee McLaren will win beyond the current year, as he called on both drivers to take the opportunity when it's available. “I like that we have the inter-team fight because this is the fight for the world championship. It's nice they are going hard," he said. “This is a moment in time for them where they have to grab the bull by the horns because you don't know when the next chance will come, or if it will ever come, because of the regulation change. “They are both fighting hard for this world championship, but it happens. Lewis and myself crashed into each 14 years ago on the same straight! It happens.”