Rosberg recommends mental coach for Lando Norris: “Extremely valuable”

Formula 1 champion Nico Rosberg has delivered his analysis of McLaren drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri’s Spanish Grand Prix qualifying performance. While the Australian secured pole position, mistakes in Norris’ lap resulted in a P2 finish for the British driver.

Rosberg, who won the drivers’ championship in 2016, claimed that Norris needs to improve his mental strength. He explained during the Sky Sports F1 broadcast following qualifying at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya:

“Oscar’s lap was beautiful – perfect. Under the highest pressure he always delivers the maximum of his potential.

“Lando’s lap from Turn 1 onwards – he overdid it. He went wide, went off line, got extra snaps and that resulted in two-tenths down. Pole position was in the head today. Unfortunately, we see over and over from Lando, when the pressure is highest, we see these little mistakes creeping in.”

Rosberg added that he would recommend Norris work with a mental coach, if he doesn’t already. He continued:

“Everything had gone perfectly for Lando. He was first until that last run. From my point of view, he needs to work on the mental side. We all work hours and hours training our bodies. I don’t know if Lando has a mental coach. Does he work with a psychologist or not? He definitely should because there’s so much value in that.

“I worked with one, just to help us understand the best possible approach. I did two hours every two days leading up to the season. It was more difficult than the physical training. It was insanely difficult and extremely valuable.”

Despite the small mistakes that cost him pole position, Norris was happy with where he’s starting tomorrow. The 25-year-old driver commented during the televised post-qualifying interview with Alex Brundle:

“Oscar drove very well. The pace is definitely there, just a couple of little mistakes. A good result for the team, a nice one-two and an interesting start for tomorrow. It’s a long run down to Turn 1, which is normally interesting and we have a lot of quick guys behind us, so we won’t count them out. A good result today, I’m happy.”