McLaren Sporting Director Gil de Ferran has praised Lando Norris’ adaptability as the team continues to evaluate the youngster for its vacant 2019 Formula 1 drive.
McLaren has already confirmed Carlos Sainz Jr. on a two-year deal as Fernando Alonso’s replacement, but the team is still weighing up the identity of the Spaniard’s team-mate.
Esteban Ocon – set to lose his Force India seat – and current reserve Norris are understood to be in contention, with incumbent Stoffel Vandoorne unlikely to be retained for a third season.
Norris undertook test running in Spain and Hungary and was handed his maiden FP1 outing in Belgium last weekend, and will drive the MCL33 again in Italy on Friday, this time in place of Vandoorne.
“One thing he certainly has is he adapts himself very quickly to any new situation,” commented de Ferran, who replaced Eric Boullier in July.
“I've seen that on the tests that he had and the same thing happened here.
“As part of his development, we wanted to bring him [into FP1 because of different downforce levels, a lot more cars on the track, a lot of track evolution and wanted to give him that experience.
“He came up to speed very quickly and did a fine job for us, didn't make any mistakes. He was absolutely fine.”
De Ferran also stressed that Norris’ practice runs are part of his development path, rather than looking towards anything more concrete.
“You called it assessment, I call it development,” said de Ferran when pushed further on Norris.
“It's very hard to assess a driver in the strength of one free practice or one session or one qualifying session.
“I think you need to step back and take a wider view. That's been the same for everyone.
“I think these free practice sessions are really more about giving Lando exposure and help him along the development plan.”
