Lando Norris on the British GP: 'We Threw It Away'

Lando Norris expressed deep frustration following the British Grand Prix, where strategic missteps cost McLaren a potential win at Silverstone.

The young Briton believes he and the team "threw away" a golden opportunity to claim their second victory of the season.

Promising pace in challenging conditions

Despite losing position to Max Verstappen at the start, Norris demonstrated impressive pace as the race progressed.

The McLaren's superior tyre temperature retention in worsening conditions allowed Norris to outpace the Mercedes duo of Lewis Hamilton and George Russell, propelling him into the lead during the wettest phase of the grand prix.

Crucial strategy Errors

However, McLaren's fortunes turned during the critical transition back to slick tyres. Norris elaborated on the team's mistakes:

"So many things were going well, and we threw it away in the final stop. It was one lap, but also I don't think it was the lap."

The decision to switch to soft tyres proved particularly costly. Norris explained,

"I think even if I boxed on the perfect lap, our decision to go onto the soft was the wrong one, and I think Lewis still would have won no matter what.

"Two calls from our side cost us everything today so, especially here, it's pretty disappointing."

Self-reflection and team accountability

Norris didn't shy away from his own role in the outcome, stating,

"We are not making the right decisions, but at the same time I blame myself today for not making some of the right decisions. I hate it. I hate ending in this position and having excuses for not doing a good enough job."

McLaren's competitive position

While acknowledging McLaren's improved form, Norris highlighted that they still haven't achieved outright dominance in any race weekend.

"We weren't quick enough today, I think. When it was completely dry, the Mercedes was a lot quicker. [In damp conditions] maybe we seemed a bit better. But we have work to do,"

he reflected.

Looking forward

Despite the disappointment, Norris remains optimistic about McLaren's potential.

"There are so many good things, and so many things in place. But it's frustrating a few times this season we've thrown away something that should've been ours,"

he concluded.

As McLaren and Norris regroup from this setback, the focus will undoubtedly be on refining their strategic decision-making process.

With the pace clearly there, capitalizing on these opportunities could be the key to more consistent podium finishes and potential victories in the races to come.