McLaren Formula 1 Team Principal Andreas Seidl says it was a “very straightforward decision” to retain Lando Norris following confirmation of the youngster’s multi-year extension.
Norris has been with McLaren since 2017, joining its young driver programme, prior to taking on the role of test and reserve driver.
Norris graduated to a full-time Formula 1 race seat for 2019 and this year has emerged as one of the midfield front-runners.
The Briton claimed a podium at Imola – so far the only driver outside of Mercedes and Red Bull to do so – and holds fourth in the championship.
On Wednesday, ahead of this weekend’s Monaco Grand Prix, McLaren confirmed it has signed a multi-year agreement with Norris.
It means Norris and Daniel Ricciardo will continue to form McLaren’s driver line-up through at least the 2023 season.
“Our decision to confirm Lando’s long-term future at McLaren was very straightforward,” said Seidl.
“Lando has impressed us since his rookie year with his performances, and his evolution as a driver since then has been clear to see.
“He’s an integral part of our performance recovery plan and his record so far, securing two podiums with the team over the past year, has shown he’s a formidable competitor on track.
“Like him, we have strong ambitions for our future together and I’m pleased we’re continuing this journey for both Lando and the team.
“In Lando and Daniel we have a hugely talented and exciting driver line-up, and this announcement is a strong signal of commitment to the next chapter for McLaren from 2022 onwards.”
McLaren CEO Zak Brown also affirmed that retaining Norris was a simple decision.
“He’s been instrumental in our return of form here at McLaren and we’re proud of the growth he’s shown since he first started with us back in 2017,” said Brown.
“Lando is one of the brightest talents on the Formula 1 grid and we look forward to seeing him continue to go from strength-to-strength both on and off track.”
