McLaren respond to Norris 'reset' vow

McLaren team principal Andrea Stella has downplayed Lando Norris' “reset” statement but acknowledged there are areas the squad can improve going forward.

Norris crossed the line at last Sunday's Belgian Grand Prix in sixth place but was bumped up one position following Geroge Russell's disqualification.

The 24-year-old was left disappointed with his opening lap that put him on the back foot and detailed he will use the summer break to “reset”.

Stella insisted McLaren will conduct a review of how it can improve its form, but hinted only minor adjustments need to be made.

“These kind of situations are always very, very marginal,” Stella told media including RacingNews365. 

“Lando got a bit distracted from what was happening on the inside, and ran out of track, it’s a marginal thing. It requires little adjustments here and there.

"We work with Lando, like we work with Oscar [Piastri], to see all the opportunities in which we can improve individually but also collaborate better to either be more prepared or to use better our abilities and talents.

“I think it doesn't necessarily change our attitude but definitely gives us some elements to analyse as to how some of these missed opportunities manifest themselves.”

Stella pinpoints early race shortcomings

McLaren's uptick in form of late has seen it close the gap to Red Bull in the constructors' championship, with the gap now sitting at 42 points.

The Woking-based squad has won two grands prix so far this year, with Norris and Piastri taking one apiece.

Norris has been in contention for several other wins but has fallen short, with Stella noticing a trend in where Norris often comes into difficulty.

"For Lando, for instance, it looks like there are statistically some opportunities that tend to happen in the early stages of the race.

"So we need to check whether this is the early stages of the race for a reason, or is it just random.

“But like any other athlete, or any other driver, I think Lando himself will learn, with the team, what he can do better to make sure we capitalise on the good work we are doing.”