Norris commits F1 future to McLaren in new four-year deal

Norris joined McLaren’s junior programme in 2017 at the age of 17 and made his F1 debut with the team two years later.  

McLaren announced last year it had exercised its option to extend Norris’ contract on a “multi-year” basis and on Wednesday the team confirmed it had agreed a new four-year deal running through to the end of 2025. 

The extension further strengthen’s the partnership between McLaren and Norris, with the 22-year-old committing his long-term future to the Woking-based outfit. 

“Teams are about people, and I love the people and feel at home at McLaren,” said Norris. “I have grown up in this team and I’m part of this journey we’re all on. 

“Last season was another great step, both in my career and the team’s performance, and I see and feel all the work, investment, and commitment for the team to be in a position to challenge for wins and titles in the future. 

“This all gives me huge confidence looking forward, so it was a natural decision to extend our relationship for the next few years.” 

Norris is considered to be one of F1’s brightest talents and produced an outstanding 2021 campaign in just his third full-season in the sport. 

The British youngster claimed four podiums, including second place behind McLaren teammate Daniel Ricciardo at Monza, on his way to finishing sixth in last year’s world championship standings, marking his best result in F1.

Norris scored his first pole position at the Russian Grand Prix but agonisingly missed out on a maiden victory in Sochi when he elected to stay out on slicks during a late rain shower that turned the race on its head. 

McLaren’s senior leadership team - including team principal Andreas Seidl and CEO Zak Brown - have also agreed “long-term” commitments in line with Norris’ deal. 

“The opportunity to extend our relationship with Lando reflect not only our commitment but our belief and confidence in his talent,” said Seidl. 

“It is also a strong sign of trust and commitment from Lando in us as a team and our journey to world championship contention. Lando has shown impressive growth as a Formula 1 driver over the past four years and has been an instrumental part of the team’s momentum and performance trajectory. 

“We are still on our journey to fight at the front and Lando is a key element of our plan, so to lock him into place, alongside Daniel and our senior leadership, gives us stability and continuity as we build towards our ultimate shared goal of world championships.” 

McLaren will reveal its MCL36 car for the upcoming 2022 season at its Woking headquarters on Friday.