'Doing some things better' – Norris reflects on upturn in form ahead of Azerbaijan Grand Prix

Lando Norris believes "I'm doing some things better than last year" after a strong recent run of form, but says that this weekend's Azerbaijan Grand Prix "is the one I've not been looking forward to".

Norris arrives in Baku having taken two wins from the last four Grands Prix, with a likely victory last time out in Madrid snatched from the McLaren driver's grasp by an ill-timed Virtual Safety Car.

During Wednesday's media day in Baku, Norris was asked whether being the reigning World Champion had given him an extra strength as he continues to challenge the frontrunning Mercedes.

"I certainly think I'm doing some things better than last year but it's not like I'm just doing a much better job than last season," he said.

"The second half of last season, a lot of my races were just a good as they have been this year. People didn't credit them as much as they seem to be doing now.

"I certainly feel like I'm doing a better job in places and I think maybe a bit more consistent. I think I'm doing a better job at extracting things out of, let's say, a tricky car but I think we've been able to see the last three races we've been probably the quickest car.

"It's different but I think with the team we're extracting everything we can out of the car and at the same time, I feel more relaxed than this point last year. I trust more myself and my abilities. That certainly seems to help at times."

Norris has dismissed any notion of challenging Kimi Antonelli for the drivers' title as he sits 106 points behind with nine Grands Prix remaining.

The Briton also believes this weekend could be one of the most challenging for McLaren, the team's 2026 car thriving on high speed corners which are generally lacking from this weekend's venue.

"Certainly the pace has been there, the team have been doing a very good job. We're there or thereabouts but I think Baku will be another challenge for us," he said.

"Not one high speed corner on this track, not even a medium speed corner. I think it will be more of a challenge to Monaco spec, which is where we struggled a lot last time.

"Out of the last few circuits, this is the one I've not been looking forward to the most. Last year was not a good race weekend for us. Our goal is to try and win but that's all the focus for now."