Lando Norris says that he feels "ready" for the challenges that lie ahead as he heads into his maiden Formula 1 weekend.
The Briton will race with McLaren this year, receiving the promotion having been part of the Woking squad's junior programme since 2017.
Last year, Norris competed in the FIA Formula 2 championship, finishing the series in second place behind fellow F1 graduate George Russell.
"This weekend marks the start of an important new chapter in my career," the 18-year-old said. "I'm excited to be making my Formula 1 debut and ready for the challenges that lie ahead.
"There are plenty of new procedures for me to get used to as I step up from F2, so the two weeks at pre-season testing were valuable as they allowed me to fully prepare for this weekend.
“This will be my first-time visiting Australia, so it'll be cool to see a new country. I've spent a lot of time preparing for the race in the simulator back at the factory; there are a few new circuits for me to learn this year."
McLaren enters the 2019 season following a difficult end to the 2018 campaign, which saw it slip towards the back of the field.
Norris says he has been communicating with his engineers on a regular basis before the season-opening race, and hopes that he and teammate Carlos Sainz can help bring McLaren back towards the front of the field.
“Since leaving Barcelona, I've spent a lot of time working with engineers and making my final preparations before taking to the track in Melbourne.
"I feel ready and I'm looking forward to working with Carlos and the team as we take on the 2019 season together.”
Local time
Local time
Bahrain International Circuit - Winter testing
Replies (0)
Login to reply