Lando Norris unveils struggles and triumphs with McLaren's MCL60 in Formula 1 season

McLaren's ace driver, Lando Norris, has candidly revealed the trials he faced while taming the MCL60 during the current Formula 1 campaign.

The racing outfit had openly acknowledged the MCL60's initial shortcomings during pre-season tests, a sentiment echoed by Norris and his teammate Oscar Piastri, who found themselves battling for meagre points in the initial eight races.

Nonetheless, a series of mid-season enhancements revolutionized the MCL60's competitive edge. This transformation propelled Norris to consecutive second-place triumphs in both Britain and Hungary, propelling him to a commendable eighth spot in the Drivers' Championship standings.

Despite McLaren's impressive resurgence, Norris didn't mince words in expressing his lingering dissatisfaction with the MCL60's idiosyncrasies, revealing his need to stray from his preferred driving style.

"I'm not a fan of driving the car the way it necessitates now. It's quite contrary to my strengths," Norris shared with the media.

"My preference is to maintain minimal speed and take a 'U' trajectory while tackling corners. Yet, presently, I'm compelled to adopt more of a 'V' approach, which I've never been particularly fond of and certainly don't relish.

"In essence, the car appears to only thrive in straight-line propulsion. Even in that regard, it doesn't exhibit extraordinary velocity. However, our excellence shines during straight-line braking, which is why we exhibited prowess in wet conditions on occasion," Norris elaborated.

"While I wouldn't assert we are inherently swift in wet conditions, there's an advantage when braking holds paramount importance, such as in Monaco."

He continued, "Certain factors enable us to remain competitive, but it's imperative to possess the flexibility to experiment with diverse trajectories and driving methodologies.

"Should the wind alter its course, conditions undergo shifts, or variables like fuel load and tyre degradation factor in, we remain constricted to a single driving approach. Regrettably, it's not a style I favour; rather, it's one I've had to adapt to.

"As a driver, I still find myself adapting significantly, far removed from the driving style I aspire to employ."

The current Formula 1 season is now in the midst of its summer hiatus, slated to return for the Dutch Grand Prix on 28 August at the iconic Circuit Zandvoort.