The Woking-based squad announced this week that it has extended Oscar Piastri’s deal until the end of 2026, which means attention has now shifted to the future of its other driver Norris, whose deal runs until 2025.
But with Norris having already emerged as potential targets of Ferrari, Aston Martin and Red Bull, McLaren knows it will have a potential fight on its hands to keep the Briton.
Speaking at the Japanese Grand Prix, McLaren team principal Andrea Stella said the best way the outfit can convince Norris to remain on board is for it to live up to the high expectations it is setting itself over the next few years.
“We're certainly having conversations with Lando,” said Stella. “They are good conversations; we are happy with how these conversations are going.
“In terms of getting the vote of confidence, we go back to the facts. Certainly, we have expressed our love, love in terms of the human element, and also you want mates to be with you in the journey, especially when the journey is so tough.
“But you also need to talk about facts: like what's the foundation for the future, and why you can give us your vote of confidence? So, with Lando we are doing exactly the same; trying to prove as much as possible on track.
“That is what we say. He realises and [we are] trying to create a sense of: this is going to continue over the coming years.”
Stella said he would not feel comfortable trying to convince a driver to stay by making outlandish promises that could not be delivered.
“I would be in discomfort myself, having a conversation with a driver, where I'm trying to persuade him playing cards that I don't have in my hands,” he said.
Source: Autosport