Sebastian Vettel has praised Lando Norris for his honesty on his psychological struggles in this year’s Formula 1 season, with the Brit revealing supportive text messages from the German.
The McLaren driver has been candid in his assessment of his season so far, having failed to win a race since the opening round in Australia.
This has seen his lead in the Drivers’ standings cut down to a slender three points, with team-mate Oscar Piastri taking two wins, including a dominant display in Bahrain.
Norris is at odds with the MCL39, conveying his inability to currently become at one with the car, saying ahead of this weekend’s Saudi Arabian Grand Prix that he is working hard to “figure out” the issues he faces.
McLaren team principal Andrea Stella has also admitted Norris is suffering, saying the car feels more like a “penalty” to his driver at the moment.
Norris’ frankness has caught the eyes of four-time champion Vettel, who was full of compliments.
Quoted by Reuters, Vettel said Norris’ honesty was a refreshing change and a reflection of more modern times that F1 drivers can be more open about such issues.
“I think it’s a positive development because we are normal people,” he said. “We do have normal problems just like everybody else.
“Heroism is fine but it’s also part of the heroism to just talk about your problems and your weakness.
“I think that’s a great development to see and to witness and, you know, real role models.
“I don’t think it’s a sign of weakness. It might be criticised by some people, but if you look at the broader picture, I think it’s just progress.”
‘He’s always helping me’: Norris reveals Sebastian Vettel support
Speaking to Sky Sports, Norris revealed the contact that he and Vettel, who retired from F1 in 2022, have been having, saying the pair are in regular contact.
“I saw what Seb said. Me and Seb talk every now and again. He texts me. Always in times when I probably need it the most.
“I really love Seb. He’s always helping me and texting me and sending me little notes that I appreciate a lot. Especially from someone like him. I think it definitely means something.”
The disclosure of his problems and Vettel’s support might well have helped Norris get on the right track, having topped FP2 on Friday at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit.
READ MORE – Lando Norris ‘on the right track’ with McLaren in Saudi Arabia
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