MELBOURNE, Australia — Lando Norris says it is “short-sighted” to believe McLaren has a clear advantage over its rivals to start the Formula One season, instead anticipating a four-team fight at the front.

Lando Norris says he is “not happy” or “confident” with his McLaren F1 car despite appearing to make a strong start at the season-opening Australian Grand Prix. The Briton topped first practice in Melbourne and ended up third-quickest in the second session, just over a tenth adrift of Charles Leclerc ’s pacesetting Ferrari.

McLaren are confident competition between Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri will not endanger the team's Formula One championship defence if the drivers find themselves battling for the individual title.

Lando Norris’ race simulations on Thursday have the rest of the paddock pointing to McLaren at the front of the field

Lando Norris bemoaned balance issues with his McLaren MCL39 after second practice for the Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix. Norris

McLaren believe Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri can co-exist without problems as the team goes into the new season as favourites.

McLaren are confident competition between Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri will not endanger the team's Formula One championship defence if the drivers find themselves battling for the individual title.

We break down the latest F1 driver contract news as Oscar Piastri signs an extension with McLaren, securing his future with the team. Meanwhile, rumors swirl as Lando Norris flirts with Ferrari, creating waves in the world of Formula 1 driver moves.