The former champion labels Norris as 'a weak individual.'

      "He's saying all this nonsense"

      1980 world champion Alan Jones has intensified the pressure on Lando Norris, labeling the McLaren driver a "weak person." The 78-year-old Jones’ criticism is expected, as he shares a nationality with Norris’ Australian teammate and current world championship leader Oscar Piastri.

      "Oscar is a strong-willed young man. I really admire him," Jones told Fox Australia. "He doesn't show off or act wildly. He is just a strong individual, and that’s exactly what we need to accomplish our goals."

      Jones, who secured Williams’ first drivers’ title nearly 45 years ago, contrasts Piastri’s demeanor with Norris’ increasing reputation for mental fragility. "I think Norris could be easily overwhelmed, and I believe Oscar will capitalize on that," he stated.

      "He can achieve it this year, no doubt. Ultimately, his teammate (Norris) is weak. His teammate is undeniably fast, but mentally, I think he lacks strength. He’s talking all this nonsense about having some mental issues and fixating on past challenges instead of the positives. When they start that kind of talk, you know you've got them."

      Another former F1 driver, Ralf Schumacher, also believes Norris’ evident vulnerability might become a significant issue for him if Piastri outperforms him for the title this year in just his third season. "He realizes that if he doesn’t perform well this year, other teams will find it hard to work with him at some point," Schumacher commented to Sky Deutschland. "In the paddock, once they view you as an inadequate driver or not mentally tough enough to become a world champion, you'll lose access to the other top teams."

      As for Jones, he thinks Piastri showcased his composure at turn 1 in Saudi Arabia, proving that even four-time world champion Max Verstappen doesn’t faze him. "Outside the car, he’s calm, but once he’s in the car, he finds his competitive edge, and that’s what you want," he stated.

      "He spots an opportunity and goes for it, and Oscar won’t be intimidated by that." Referring to Verstappen, Jones added, "There are many other drivers he can outsmart and control, but I believe Oscar possesses the mental fortitude to not let that nonsense affect him. He’ll take it for what it is and respond accordingly.

      "He’s emerged from almost nowhere and possesses all the qualities needed to become a world champion."