Lando Norris bracing for inevitable rivalry with McLaren teammate Oscar Piastri

The British driver discussed how a potential clash with his teammate could impact their relationship as the title fight heats up. Norris emphasised the importance of preparation and mutual respect.

Speaking to Sky Sports he stated, "I think we've been actually quite open in saying, at some point, something is probably going to happen. And we just have to be ready for that."

Norris acknowledged the competitive nature of his relationship with Piastri, making it clear that while mutual respect exists, both drivers are ultimately driven by the desire to win.

"We both want to win, we both want to beat each other, but in the end of the day, there can only be one person. And that'll be whoever performs the best over the course of the year." Norris ensured.

He also echoed team principal Andrea Stella's outlook on the inevitability of tensions arising, adding, “I think Andrea said it, it's not an if, it's a when, and we'll see when that time comes. But of course, we'll try and avoid everything as much as possible. It's inevitable that it happens in racing.”

Norris also praised Piastri’s growth as a driver, noting how much progress his teammate has made as he enters his third season in Formula 1. Reflecting on his own experience, Norris drew parallels between their development at this stage in their careers.

He went on to commend Piastri’s performances so far in 2025, "He's performing well. He's driving incredibly well at a very, very high level, and deserves everything that he's been doing at the minute, you know."

Despite the competitive tension, Norris described their battle as positive and enjoyable: "So yeah, it's a good fun rivalry between us."