Norris is realistic: 'We have valid reasons for being in the midfield now'

Whereas Norris performed excellently in 2021 and managed to compete with Red Bull Racing and Mercedes, he decided not to respond to other teams' interest and signed a contract until the end of 2025. He did so for a reason, according to Norris.

"I signed such a long contract because I believe those later years is when I'm going to be able to achieve things," he said. "Which is 2024 and 2025. If I signed a short contract, that's like I have faith or I think the team should suddenly win this year or last year which is not the reality at all. I signed a long contact because I'm happy where I am, I see where the team are going."

Norris gives McLaren time

Although the driver hopes McLaren will be able to compete for podium places in a number of race weekends this season, he seems to see this calendar year mainly as an intermediate year. A year later, the team really needs to be there.

"You never know and there's always an odd race when you can have the chance. This year we need to give us a solid position to go into next year, hopefully, be the leading midfield team and be the pioneers of leading the way to closing the gap to the top three teams. That can hopefully be done over 24-25."

For now, however, Norris believes McLaren have logical reasons why they are not yet succeeding. "There are just certain things that don't allow us to perform at the same level. When we can, there are no excuses to have left."