Lando Norris has praised the impact made by team boss Andreas Seidl since stepping in at McLaren.
The former head of Porsche’s LMP1 program in WEC officially became Formula 1 team principal at the British outfit back in Spain and has overseen a strong campaign as they sit fourth in the Constructors’ standings.
Asked what Seidl has done most at McLaren, however, Norris explained the work he has done to bring clarity to the team’s operation.
“I think so far, a lot of it has been more dedicated to the mechanics and the team back at Woking, and everything from that side of things,” he said back in Spa.
“I think everyone’s feeling a lot more at home, but at the same time, I think everyone’s more fired up than what they were already at the beginning of the season.
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“Of course at the beginning of the season coming from last year everything was going fairly well, but it was more the structure of everything that needed putting in place and confirming,” the 19-year-old admitted.
“It wasn’t like a free for all but we didn’t quite have the structure, we do now with Andreas.”
Another decision McLaren took early was to confirm both Norris and teammate Carlos Sainz for 2020, doing so back at the British GP in July.
While their retention was already seen as a mere formality, both drivers agree it has allowed them to focus on their jobs.
“In a way, it’s nice not having to talk about it and worry about it and it’s nice seeing everyone else talking about it and you can sit back and watch it!” Lando said of the current ‘silly season’.
“But it wasn’t something I was necessarily worried about. I think I did a good enough job to hopefully earn the seat for next season anyway.
“At the same time it’s pressure off the shoulders, easier for me, and when things are easier generally things go a bit smoother. I think we’ve had more focus on just improving the car, improving our driving, and not worried about the outside.”
Sainz agreed, adding: “Yeah, this summer was definitely been the most relaxing, least stressful summer of my career until now which is always good news.
“It was a smart move by the team, as I said two months ago everyone knew I was going to McLaren for at least two years.”