Emerson Fittipaldi believes that young McLaren driver Lando Norris is World Champion material, the Brazilian Formula 1 legend also has inside information that his former team will get stronger with every race.
Speaking ahead of this weekend’s Emilia Romagna Grand Prix at Imola, Fittipaldi told VegasInsider: “Both Mercedes and McLaren know how to work within the new rules. In terms of mechanical grip, they improved a lot. The engine has also improved quite a lot.”
Fittipaldi referencing McLaren’s resurgence at the Australian Grand Prix last time out, after a slow start to the season, is confident that the upward trend will continue for the Woking outfit.
“Lando Norris and Daniel Ricciardo are going to be strong again. Without a doubt. They have the potential to be on the podium in Imola,” predicted Emmo. “I was with McLaren in Jeddah, and Zak Brown confirmed that they’ll continue to get better for each race. For the next four-five Grands Prix.
“McLaren was without a doubt the most improved team at the Grand Prix in Australia and should be stronger at Imola. I’m sure they will continue to improve a lot.”
F1 World Champion for McLaren in 1974, Fittipaldi added lavish praise for Norris: “I think Lando has already established himself as what I call potential World Champion material.”
The 22-year-old Briton previewed the Sprint Race weekend at Imola: “I’m excited to be back in Imola! It was a great race for me last year, scoring my first podium of 2021.”
But Norris is not as confident of a top-three at Imola as Fittipaldi is: “We’re not back fighting for podiums just yet, but hopefully we can keep moving forward and get the most out of this weekend.
The circuit is fast, with some iconic features which should be interesting to tackle in the new cars. The Sprint always adds an extra bit of excitement for the fans so I’m looking forward to seeing how the weekend plays out.
“Australia was a more positive weekend for us, but we know we still have a lot of work to do to get where we want to be. Let’s keep improving, keep learning more about the car and be ready to take advantage of any opportunities that come up,” added Norris who lies eighth in the F1 drivers’ standings after three rounds.
Let’s go, @LandoNorris! ???
Throwing it back to our last visit to Imola, roll on this weekend! ? pic.twitter.com/AWSuL6a2ZL
— McLaren (@McLarenF1) April 19, 2022