Norris Shocks McLaren with Revelation of Exit Discussions

Lando Norris has made a significant revelation about potentially leaving McLaren, disclosing that he previously had chances to exit the team which could have led to earlier victories in his Formula 1 career.

The British star started the 2024 season without a grand prix victory but now approaches 2025 with four race wins, 26 podiums, and has finally secured a constructors’ championship for the papaya team.

McLaren emerged as Red Bull’s strongest competitor last season, while Ferrari showed occasional brilliance that kept the battle in the team standings intense until the very end.

As they approached the season finale in Abu Dhabi, Ferrari and McLaren were neck and neck with an equal opportunity to clinch the trophy. Meanwhile, Red Bull was out of contention due to Sergio Perez’s consistently poor performances.

Even though both Ferrari drivers landed on the podium and Oscar Piastri, Norris’ teammate, had to battle his way up after an early crash, Norris achieved his fourth career victory. This triumph secured McLaren their first constructors’ title since 1998.

Norris discloses interest from competing F1 teams.

Despite the 25-year-old’s success last season, he has now disclosed that rival teams across the grid had previously approached him with opportunities to leave his current team, where he has since established a stable career.

Following renewed discussions after the season finale in Abu Dhabi, Norris revealed that he had previously received offers to join race-winning teams during challenging times with his Woking-based team. However, he emphasized being glad about rejecting those opportunities now that he’s experiencing success at McLaren.

When talking about what the team’s victory would mean to him, Norris surprised everyone by telling the media: “I believe my greatest pride and joy will be that I’m still here. Being part of papaya is significant because I’ve trusted in this team for many years.”

“I had chances earlier in my career to avoid being with Papaya, which might have allowed me to win races sooner.”

I had those opportunities, but I was determined to accomplish it with McLaren. I wanted to succeed with the team that gave me my start in Formula 1.

Although we initially doubted it would be possible this year, we’re now optimistic about next year. Next year has always been our planned target both in theory and on paper.

This year, we’re actually doing it.

is an even greater accomplishment.”