McLaren’s Lando Norris will face a double challenge in Melbourne, kickstarting his career in F1 and doing it at a venue he has yet to discover, but the sport’s youngest driver heads Down Under well prepared.

Norris racked up the miles during pre-season testing in Barcelona, unhindered by any major issues as he added to his knowledge.

But the prospect of lining up on next Sunday’s grid will mark a significant milestone form the McLaren charger.

    Sainz responds to Marko’s dire prediction for McLaren

“This weekend marks the start of an important new chapter in my career,” said the 19-year-old.

“I’m excited to be making my Formula 1 debut and ready for the challenges that lie ahead.

“There are plenty of new procedures for me to get used to as I step up from F2, so the two weeks at pre-season testing were valuable as they allowed me to fully prepare for this weekend.”

©RedBull

Norris’ only experience of the 5.3km Albert Park circuit has been of the virtual kind, but groundwork for Melbourne also included many technical briefings with McLaren’s engineers.

Click Here: Cheap Chiefs Rugby Jersey 2019

“This will be my first-time visiting Australia, so it’ll be cool to see a new country,” he said.

“I’ve spent a lot of time preparing for the race in the simulator back at the factory; there are a few new circuits for me to learn this year.

“Since leaving Barcelona, I’ve spent a lot of time working with engineers and making my final preparations before taking to the track in Melbourne.

“I feel ready and I’m looking forward to working with Carlos and the team as we take on the 2019 season together.”

Gallery: The beautiful wives and girlfriends of F1 drivers

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter