Lando Norris’ drive from again finish of the grid to fifth on the Mexico Metropolis Grand Prix reminded McLaren staff principal Andrea Stella of considered one of Fernando Alonso’s most well-known wins.

Norris didn’t set a aggressive time in qualifying and began seventeenth however confirmed nice tempo in the course of the race, even overcoming a poorly timed security automobile and crimson flag which may have ruined the comeback drive.

He capped the efficiency with a superb go on Mercedes’ George Russell within the closing laps.

McLaren boss Stella was beforehand race engineer for Alonso at Ferrari and labored with the two-time world champion when he drove from eleventh on the grid to victory on the 2012 European Grand Prix.

Stella mentioned Norris’ efficiency on Sunday was comparable.

“This race made me consider Valencia 2012,” Stella mentioned. “On the time we began eleventh after which we received the race.

“We had been having precisely this dialog on the pitwall. Will Joseph, his race engineer, turned to me and he mentioned: ‘That is considered one of Lando’s greatest!’ And I mentioned: ‘Will, that is probably the greatest of all!’.

“So many overtakes in Mexico, when yesterday when you learn the quotes everybody was saying it is so tough to overhaul, whereas managing energy unit temperatures, and having to do raise and coast…

“I am simply impressed. Among the best days for a driver that I’ve been a part of.”

Norris is having fun with his greatest season in Method One to this point, with six podiums, 5 of which have been second positions, to his title to this point.

A maiden F1 victory nonetheless eludes the Englishman, who will flip 23 the week of the Las Vegas Grand Prix.