McLaren impact on female demographic a "cool thing" - Norris

Lando Norris has described his and McLaren's potential impact on helping female drivers enter F1 as a "cool thing".

McLaren, with the help of the social media engagement provided by Norris and team-mate Daniel Ricciardo, collared the lion's share of the vote for the most favoured F1 team in a recent global fan survey.

The team also established a stronghold of followers in the female demographic of the vote, owing to the inclusive spirit surrounding it and its social media output.

Ahead of the Mexico City Grand Prix, McLaren announced New Zealander Emma Gilmour as its first female driver ahead of its maiden Extreme E campaign.

Speaking after the results of the global fan survey were revealed, Norris singled out assisting female drivers in having a shot of reaching F1.

"Every now and then I read some of the messages I get from people," explained Norris.

"I see a lot of them are girls but I don't think it changes anything I do. It's a nice thing to have.

"It's a good thing that I can influence them and have an effect on them in a way.

"The fact I can put on a good show and maybe bring that audience into Formula 1 a bit more is a cool thing.

"If it helps with more women drivers coming through, into racing and Formula 1, if it's something I'm able to push, I guess it's a cool thing."

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