A small but significant change to his steering wheel setup has propelled Lando Norris back to the top of the 2025 Formula 1 standings. With just a one-point lead over his McLaren teammate, Oscar Piastri, Norris' recent success in Mexico can be attributed to more than just his driving skills.
The turning point for Norris was his debrief after the Singapore Grand Prix, which led to his dominant performance in Mexico. While the improved cooling and tire degradation management played a crucial role, there's an intriguing detail that sets Norris apart from his competitors.
The Power of Data (or Lack Thereof)
Since the Monaco GP, Norris has requested a unique modification to his steering wheel display. He asked to remove the 'delta,' a time indicator that shows a driver's lap progress, turn by turn. This indicator, usually positioned in the upper right corner of the wheel, is a reference point for drivers to assess their lap performance.
Norris' decision to eliminate this data point during qualifying is a bold move. He believes it allows him to focus solely on maximizing each corner, without being influenced by the data. In his words, "I push no matter what... I guess it's because you have no reference of maybe the overall lap time, so you just always try to maximize every corner to the maximum."
But here's where it gets controversial: some might argue that removing this data could lead to less precise driving. After all, sensations and feelings behind the wheel don't always translate to the fastest lap times. Norris, however, is confident that this choice helps him perform at his best, free from any potential distractions.
And this is the part most people miss: Norris still has the final lap time reference at the end of his pass. So, he's not completely in the dark. Additionally, key data like tire temperature, gear balance, and brake balance remain visible, ensuring he has the information he needs to optimize his performance.
The situation changes during the race, though. The delta returns to Norris' steering wheel, providing him with crucial references for maintaining consistency and understanding the team's saving requirements at certain points in the race.
So, is Norris onto something with his unique approach to data management? Or is he taking a risk that could backfire? We want to hear your thoughts! Do you think this strategy gives him an edge, or is it a potential weakness? Let us know in the comments!
