Former F1 driver Ralf Schumacher didn’t hold back when discussing Lando Norris’s racecraft, claiming the McLaren driver still lacks the instincts needed to execute decisive overtakes—especially when racing elite competitors like Max Verstappen.
Speaking on the Backstage Boxengasse Podcast, Schumacher said,
“Lando simply lacks that [overtaking instinct] and he won’t learn it. That’s how it is.”
Despite Norris’s strong performances in qualifying and race pace, Schumacher believes his inability to position himself effectively for overtakes is a limiting factor in his title chances. According to Schumacher, drivers like Max Verstappen, Oscar Piastri, and rookie Oliver Bearman have the “eye” for setting up passes—something Norris has yet to master.
“There are simply drivers who have a great eye for it. Max, Piastri, Bearman—Lando doesn’t have that,” Schumacher added.
Bearman Turning Heads in His First Full F1 Season
Meanwhile, Oliver Bearman has been gaining fans—and respect—in his debut full season with Haas. After scoring points in his stand-in drives last year, Bearman’s assertive style has already impressed legends like Jenson Button.
During the Miami Grand Prix, Bearman pulled off a spectacular double overtake at the race start, showcasing the very skills Norris has been accused of lacking.
His ability to read traffic, time moves, and capitalize on small gaps has made Bearman a standout performer—even without top-tier machinery.
Norris vs Verstappen: Still Not There Yet?
While Verstappen may not see himself in the 2025 title fight just yet, his presence continues to weigh on the McLaren camp. As Norris and teammate Oscar Piastri push forward, overtaking finesse might be the deciding factor in who rises to challenge Red Bull’s dominance.
And if Bearman keeps climbing the ranks, Norris might have more than just Piastri and Verstappen to worry about.
