Norris reveals McLaren 'damage' in sensational Australian GP victory

Lando Norris has revealed he sustained some damage aboard his McLaren F1 car as he sensationally won the wild Australian Grand Prix, holding off a last lap challenge from Max Verstappen.

Norris, who now leads the drivers' championship for the first time in his career, fended off Verstappen's late charge to win by less than a second.

It is the first time he has won the season-opener, and cemented his status as title favourite with a fifth career victory in the all-time classic race. 

Norris, who defended against team-mate Oscar Piastri during the mid-part of the race before surviving the sudden shower that pitched Piastri off, spoke of the struggle.

"It was a tough race, especially with Max behind me, I was pushing, it was a little bit stressful, I am not going to lie," Norris said.

"We went off, made some big mistakes, I went through the gravel and caused a lot of damage, but these are the ones that are enjoyable and unpredictable, but this time we got it right and ended on top.

"Max was quick, but I had good pace but I made one mistake at Turn 6 and he got within DRS and that allowed him to stay within one second, and he had a couple of looks and I had to check my mirrors more often that I would have liked, but I stayed calm and kept it together, and listened to [engineer] Will [Joseph]. 

"It's been an amazing weekend, and it is not easy to put a weekend like this together, especially with pressure from Max and Oscar, because they're hungry and competitve and want it just as badly, but I know what I am capable of.

"It is still only race one of 24, but dealing with the pressure, dealing with Max and Oscar, I couldn't relax inside, but not to make a mistake that cost me anything should give me some credit, but thanks to McLaren, because they've given me an amazing car."