F1 world champion Jenson Button has warned Lando Norris that the McLaren driver’s consistent self-criticism could become detrimental to his performance.
Norris has been vocal about his disappointment in recent races, particularly after losing out on a potential British Grand Prix victory due to a strategic error.
At Silverstone, this year’s Canadian Grand Prix winner expressed frustration with McLaren's inability to capitalize on their strong race pace, attributing their misfortunes to team mistakes and to his own performance.
The shortfall allowed future Mercedes race winner Lewis Hamilton to undercut his rival and power to a record ninth win in the British Grand Prix.
"We've always been there or thereabouts, but never the car, and I think we need to keep working as a team," Norris said. "I need to keep working on my own stuff, and just try and put it together."
With Norris visibly frustrated after missing out on a victory at his home Grand Prix, Button
cautioned the McLaren charger against dwelling on his mistakes, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a positive mindset.
“Lando needs to be a little bit careful with his emotions,” commented Button on Sky Sports F1.
“He is putting himself down massively at the last race, this race, it can quite easily spiral out of control.
“We know how important it is to have your head in the right place. He is so talented that I don’t want him to be too down on himself so that he is not back up there at the next race.”
Button's advice serves as a reminder that mental resilience is crucial for success in Formula 1. The F1 veteran also noted the psychological aspect of competition, suggesting that showing vulnerability could be detrimental
“You also don’t want to show your competitors that you’re that down,” he added. “That’s a weakness that you don’t want to show.
“It’s lovely that he’s open with his emotions and it’s great for us viewers.
“But I’m just thinking of the competitive side of things. He shouldn’t be so down on himself.”
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