McLaren test and reserve driver Lando Norris revelled in his sportscar debut at the Daytona 24 Hours but has played down the notion of further outings in the near future.
Reigning F3 Champion Norris linked up with Fernando Alonso and Phil Hanson to compete in the iconic event for United Autosports, the team co-chaired by McLaren chief Zak Brown.
Norris impressed with his speed throughout the event but the No. 23 crew was plagued by several issues, most prominently a brake problem, which dropped it out of contention.
The Briton, who will compete at this weekend’s Race of Champions in Saudi Arabia, lauded his sportscar run, but insists his primary focus is on his impending Formula 2 programme with Carlin.
“I’ve enjoyed this event a lot and if I had the opportunity to do Le Mans or any of the other big endurance sportscar races around the world, I would do so,” he said.
“But not yet, F2 and ultimately F1 is my goal.
“Every time I went out on track I had a lot of fun – that was the whole idea of doing it. It’s more of a team game from what I’m used to – you want to do good for everyone.
“The team worked really hard since the Roar [test] to improve the car. We struggled because it seems the car and this track don’t get along.
“But we all kept pushing and our race pace was pretty impressive. We were sometimes the fastest car on-track but mainly in the top-five. We could have possibly won.”
Norris caught the eye with his rapid pace when a rain shower struck the circuit during the night, emerging as comfortably the quickest driver in slippery conditions.
On that segment of the race, Norris said: “Initially I was told it wouldn’t rain for long but then it got heavier making conditions tricky.
“I made up ground but I had no clue what position I was in, I certainly didn’t think I was near P1.
“It was a cool stint and very enjoyable. You’re forever overtaking cars, you can’t relax much.”
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