Lando Norris is still riding high after his first Grand Prix victory in Miami last weekend, with McLaren hoping it can kickstart their challenge to Red Bull at the top of the grid. Christian Horner’s outfit have shown some rare vulnerability following the exit of design chief Adrian Newey, with their rivals set to pounce.
Newey, who will leave in the first quarter of 2025, is yet to decide where his future lies amid speculation that he could link up with Lewis Hamilton at Ferrari.
The likes of Aston Martin and McLaren have been ruled out for various reasons, but Newey and Hamilton have both openly stated their desire to work together and their dreams may finally be realised in Italy.
Mercedes remain an outsider, following a disappointing start to their season. Toto Wolff’s current priority is replacing the outgoing seven-time world champion, with Carlos Sainz and Verstappen considered ideal options to work alongside George Russell.
Lewis Hamilton fed up at Mercedes
Lewis Hamilton has bemoaned his current situation at Mercedes, frustrated that he is having to compete lower down the grid.
The Brit is going through his worst-ever start to a season, his last at the team before heading to Ferrari next year, and wants imminent changes.
“It’s been tough,” he told CBS in Miami. “Of course, we exist to win and when you’re not winning, your perspective has to shift. And it’s just been about chasing and it’s about improvement. It’s about coming together.
“How can we make improvements? How can we get back to where we want to be and rallying and everyone out? I actually really enjoyed that experience. But three years in now, we’re like, okay, I’ve had enough of this, let’s get back to where we belong.”
