Lando Norris, after winning the Sprint Race, finished second in qualifying just 65 thousandths behind Verstappen.
A positive Saturday for Lando Norris, who, after triumphing in the morning’s Sprint Race, secured second place in the qualifying session, missing pole position by just 65 thousandths of a second behind Verstappen. It wasn’t a perfect lap for the Brit, who lost the chance to take the top spot due to a small mistake in the final sector. The start will be crucial but not decisive for Lando, who yesterday managed to gain a point on teammate Piastri.
Here’s what the British driver had to say after qualifying: “Congratulations to Max, especially because he became a father. I was hoping he’d slow down a bit, but that didn’t happen. I’m happy with the progress we made today on a personal level, but Max pulled off a typical Max lap—hats off to him. Still, I’m excited for tomorrow.”
Norris then added: “I wasn’t able to be perfect, but the pace was there—the car felt good. I felt better in that regard compared to previous weekends. I just couldn’t put it all together, that’s how it went. Max is on pole, I’m second. I’m ready to see what happens in Turn 2, especially if it rains. But I’m prepared for both scenarios.”
Photo: X McLaren F1 Team