McLaren To Have 'Strongest Pairing' On F1 Grid According To CEO

Wednesday, 27 December 2023 at 14:00

Updated at Tuesday, 02 January 2024 at 20:30

Zak Brown mentioned he's convinced McLaren's Lando Norris with Oscar Piastri is the strongest driver pairing in the grid.

Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri achieved nine Grand Prix podium finishes together in 2023 despite a challenging start to the season with an uncompetitive car.

The two Papaya drivers had the chance to show their skills driving in the back, midfield, and even the front of the field during the most recent season.

Both drivers showed their qualities as they played equal games with World Champions like Max Verstappen, Lewis Hamilton, and Fernando Alonso during multiple races. McLaren's CEO Zak Brown wrote in his end-of-the-year letter:

"I believe we have the strongest driver pairing on the Formula 1 grid. Many agree that Oscar has been a revelation in his rookie campaign, and he has already shown he is able to fight at the front with the likes of Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen."

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Norris has already been considered one of the best and most talented drivers on the grid, and Piastri quickly joined him with a rookie season that almost broke Lewis Hamilton's record.

The Australian driver even won his first race in F1 when he was the first to cross the finish line during the Qatar Sprint race and also won the Rookie of the Year award.

"It was a shame he missed out on a podium at Silverstone, due to the timing of the Safety Car, but he did achieve his first at Suzuka before his brilliant victory in the Qatar Sprint, both of which prove he is an exceptional talent."

Piastri exceeded everybody's expectations in 2023. The team was so impressed with their rookie that they prolonged his contract until the end of the 2026 season.

"With a new contract that takes Oscar with us through to the end of 2026, I’ve no doubt he’ll continue to impress as he gains more experience."

McLaren has the youngest driver pairing on the grid, with an age average of 23 years. Do you believe they could compete for the title during the upcoming season?