Norris wary of Verstappen threat as Singapore Grand Prix looms under the lights

Written by Kavi Khandelwal

McLaren's Lando Norris has expressed a mix of confidence and competitive caution as the paddock sets up under the lights for the 2025 Singapore Grand Prix. He highlighted a renewed threat from Max Verstappen and Red Bull.

Credit: Clive Rose

Speaking at the press conference today, Norris conveyed his excitement for the race on Sunday, noting that the Marina Bay Street Circuit is one of his favourites on the calendar.

His optimism is rooted in past success, a win in 2024 and a P2 in 2023 with former teammate, Carlos Sainz Jr. in P1. He admitted that he feels "confident" heading into the weekend, given how well the McLaren package performed at the demanding track last year.

A driver's self-belief is a key component for success at a track like Singapore, where the walls are relentlessly close and the humid conditions test physical and mental endurance to the limit.

Credit: Formula One

However, alongside this personal confidence, there is a pragmatic acknowledgement of the his long-time rival, Verstappen, as a primary challenger for victory. He cited the recent development push from the Red Bull team, especially with Verstappen's back-to-back victories at the 2025 Italian Grand Prix and the 2025 Azerbaijan Grand Prix.

Norris said: "[Verstappen] is genuinely a challenger... A couple of weeks ago they brought some upgrades and that seems to have put them on the same level as us. We expect battles, especially with him."

This admission proves to be a potential turning point where Red Bull's renewed strength could challenge McLaren's recent form.

Aside from the pinnacle of motorsport, Verstappen participated and won the Nurburgring GT3 on debut. Norris was also asked about his thoughts on the same.

"It's nice he can go and do what he wants. I think after you win four world championships, you have a bit more right to just go and choose what you want to do." he stated.

"I don't know how much it adds to your greatness or not, but the fact he can go into any series and be probably the best, I think does show how good he is and how great he is. I've said it many times. I think he's born to be and will forever be, one of the best ever, if not the best in Formula 1." he continued.

As the Singapore Grand Prix looms, Norris' confidence is tempered by a clear respect for his rival. His acknowledgement of a resurgent Verstappen sets the stage for a tense and thrilling battle under the lights, promising a true test of nerve and pace between two of the grid's top talents.