McLaren recently announced Lando Norris’ stay with them for two more seasons, with the Brit signing a new contract.
This news came before the Monaco GP, and was a surprise to many. Norris will earn $11 million a year, which is a major pay hike for the 21-year-old. He has been well-rewarded for his blistering start to the season.
But if people think Norris is now the top dog at McLaren, they are wrong, financially at least. Despite taking a pay cut to join the Woking constructor, Daniel Ricciardo earns $17 million a year, which is six million dollars more than his teammate.
The Australian’s deal runs until the end of the 2023 season, and is a massive one. He hasn’t shown the results to back it up, but once he gets comfortable with the new car, it is only a matter of time.
Finding the groove
Both drivers head to Monaco, which is a memorable place for Ricciardo. He has taken more points here than at any other location. He memorably clinched P1 for Red Bull in 2018 at the same track.
With that experience, he could delay Norris’ contract celebrations by finishing ahead of him. He did the same last race, and might very well do it again.
McLaren will be delighted with the talent on their hands. In a statement, CEO Zak Brown spoke about Lando Norris’ contract extension.
“I’m delighted with the extension of our agreement with Lando for 2022 and beyond,” he said.
“He’s been instrumental in our return of form here at McLaren, and we’re proud of the growth he’s shown since he first started with us back in 2017. Lando is one of the brightest talents on the Formula 1 grid, and we look forward to seeing him continue to go from strength-to-strength both on and off track.”
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