Monza was the wake-up call. It wasn’t so much the result, where the 1-2 slipped through its fingers thanks to Ferrari’s ambitious one-stop strategy that snared victory for Charles Leclerc. It was the opening lap fight between Norris and Oscar Piastri that, while fair and within its internal racing rules, cost Norris two positions.

While rival teams like Red Bull are keeping a watchful eye, McLaren boss Andrea Stella confirmed that talks are underway with Lando Norris to secure his future. Questions were asked of Norris when he committed to McLaren in a long-term deal running until the end of F1 2025,