Schumacher warns: 'It's too early to write off Norris just yet'

Norris started the Dutch Grand Prix from the second place, alongside his teammate, Piastri.

The Briton was able to stay close to Piastri, however, a technical issue with his car forced Norris to park his McLaren during the final laps last Sunday, significantly increasing his deficit in the championship.

Currently, the gap stands at 34 points, after the Australian crossed the finish line in first place in Zandvoort.

While some believe this could be a key turning point in the championship, Ralf Schumacher believes it's too early to write off Norris.

"I don't think this was the last time we've seen a DNF. The cars are getting older, the mileage of the engines is increasing," he began on the Backstage Boxengasse podcast of Sky Sports Germany.

"This means that [parts] must be changed and then he has to start from the back - otherwise something will happen. The same could happen to Oscar. It shouldn't happen anymore, that's something for sure," the German emphasized.

Schumacher thinks the aftermath of the DNF will be noticeable in the coming races.

Although some might think this could put more pressure on Norris to recover the points he missed out on, Schumacher thinks otherwise.

"I think it gives him more space," said the former driver, who added that the two McLarens were on another planet in terms of pace compared to the rest.

Schumacher admits that Norris appears combative in the media, and that this is necessary, but he expects the Brit to be able to relax more internally. The German also expects the two drivers to play mind games with each other in the upcoming races.

Finally, he also had considerable praise for Piastri, who, according to the six-time Grand Prix winner, has the necessary qualities to become a world champion.

"You either have it or you don't. He has it, and Norris has it - as an emotional guy who we love - a bit harder," he concluded.