Former Formula 1 driver Christijan Albers has recognised Lando Norris, McLaren’s emerging star, as a potential successor to Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen, thanks to his outstanding performance in 2023.
Widely regarded as one of the most promising young drivers on the F1 grid, Norris has an edge in age over his peers, such as Charles Leclerc and George Russell. His remarkable performances during the 2023 season have led Albers, the accomplished Dutch driver, to predict a bright future for Norris akin to that of Hamilton or Verstappen.
Predictions of greatness for Lando Norris
2023 marked a significant year in Norris’s career, achieving seven podium finishes, doubling his previous record. His exceptional performance positions him as a strong contender against Verstappen. Albers expresses confidence in Norris’s potential to become a future World Champion.
“Lando Norris is someone who could eventually grow to the level of Verstappen and Hamilton,” Albers wrote in his De Telegraaf column.
“He was put under pressure a few times by rookie Oscar Piastri, especially in qualifying, but Norris showed who is boss after that. He was really much faster than Piastri on Sundays.”
Albers extended his commendations to Oscar Piastri, expressing a keen interest in observing how Piastri will fare in the upcoming 2024 season, and his second year on the grid.
He noted that Piastri showed promising talent in his rookie year, with McLaren, setting the stage for heightened expectations in the following season. Albers mentioned that Piastri’s development and adaptation to the rigours of Formula 1 would be crucial in determining his success. He highlighted the importance of consistency and skill growth, which are vital for any driver aiming to significantly impact their first year in a sport. Albers is optimistic about Piastri’s potential and is eager to see how he will evolve and compete against more experienced drivers on the grid.
“I am curious to see how he will present himself in his second year in Formula 1. A debut season like that is always different. You are under less pressure then.
“You also saw that with George Russell alongside Hamilton, because Russell was generally the weaker in the races in his second Mercedes year anyway.”
Albers also brought attention to another notable rookie, Liam Lawson, expressing regret that the talented New Zealander currently does not have a seat in Formula 1. He emphasised that Lawson’s absence from the grid is unfortunate, considering the skill and potential he has demonstrated.
Lawson’s performances in lower-tier racing series have been impressive, showcasing a level of talent and dedication that deserves recognition at the highest level of motorsport. Lawson’s talent needs to be nurtured, as he brings fresh energy and competitiveness to the sport. Albers hopes to see Lawson secure a seat in the future, as he believes drivers of his calibre are essential for the continued growth and excitement of Formula 1.
“Personally, I do think it is a shame that Liam Lawson does not have a seat,” he said.
“As a replacement for the injured Daniel Ricciardo, he did very well for five race weekends. I think Lawson deserved a chance, especially in such a training team like AlphaTauri.
“Shame! Though I wouldn’t be surprised either if that changes during the 2024 season.
“If Sergio Perez continues like this at Red Bull, I highly rate the chances of him being replaced by Ricciardo, provided he performs well. And then the way will still be clear for Lawson.
“Perez especially should be very happy that he signed a two-year contract extension in 2022. Otherwise, he would not have been at Red Bull next season already.”
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