McLaren boss: Norris will be busy in 2018

McLaren boss Eric Boullier has insisted that Formula One back-up driver Lando Norris will have a very busy schedule in 2018 despite not currently being pencilled in for any Grand Prix races for the upcoming campaign, as he begins his stand-by role.

Eighteen-year-old Norris is the current Formula Three champion and his talents have been highlighted by several figures in F1 who have recognised his potential.

Norris will be competing at Formula Two level in the 2018 campaign, and Boullier has insisted the young driver will be busy due to these multiple commitments.

“I hope that he will one day drive for McLaren – that’s why we took him on board,” the McLaren boss told Formula1.com. “But first is F2 – a good sporting challenge for him.”

“He will spend a lot of time in the simulator and he will have the opportunity to test,” he added.

“He was also pushing to get some FP1 outings, but I am not a fan of this. But he will still have a busy life!”

Next month Norris will have the opportunity to create a professional bond with a potential McLaren team-mate in Alonso as the duo take on the Daytona 24-Hour Race in Florida.