Ricciardo expects big things from Norris

McLaren

Ricciardo expects big things from Norris

Ricciardo talks up his future McLaren teammate

Sam Hall

Friday 19 June 2020 16:36

Daniel Ricciardo has said he hopes for 'some good competition' from Lando Norris when the two drivers link-up at McLaren in 2021.

Ricciardo is no stranger to competing alongside a young promising teammate, and the Australian has said he expects a similar challenge from Norris as he was given by Verstappen at Red Bull.

“Hopefully a lot. Obviously, I felt that with Max [Verstappen] at Red Bull," Ricciardo told the F1 Nation podcast. "It was like, I feel like we both lifted each other by pushing each other and being the competitors that we are.

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“I would obviously love that and expect that from Lando, and I say I expect it, because he had a really strong rookie year.

“I’m pretty sure he out qualified Carlos. I think that was quite a statement for his rookie year, so I expect him to be there.

“I think we’re both pretty easy going once the helmet is off and I’m sure people will have a bit of fun with that, but I’m sure you’re going to see some good competition.

“The same with [Esteban] Ocon this year. I’ve still got obviously this year with him, and I haven’t raced him as a teammate yet, but same kind of deal."

After it was pointed out to Ricciardo that he is ten-years Norris's senior, the Australian expressed his amusement at having the next generation of drivers snapping at his heels.

Ricciardo added: “I’m actually really excited to have these young little ankle-biters coming at me, but I’m excited to see how he goes.

“We say rusty, but he’s the most rusty having all last year off as well, so I know he’s champing at the bit to get going.”

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