McLaren’s Norris is set on a clean race, eyeing a win with his robust pace in the upcoming contest.
Lando Norris does not believe that McLaren F1 has specifically intensified its focus on qualifying for the Hungarian Grand Prix, but he acknowledges the team’s ability to leverage its excellent single-lap pace. He now hopes that both he and his teammate can maintain their leading positions to challenge Max Verstappen.
“I don’t think it’s particularly significant. Every qualifying session is crucial, just as every race is. It’s not suddenly a case of needing to perform or prove anything. That’s not the situation,” Norris stated.
“We’ve given our best at each race. I believe we’ve demonstrated a very strong pace and have had substantial opportunities. And yes, some of those we’ve missed. There’s no need to delve back into all of that. But indeed, I would like a clean and strong weekend.”
“Already yesterday, we were very strong at the start of FP2 and FP3. So, it would be great to have a good Turn 1 and see what happens from there. But I’m bracing for a tough race with Oscar and Max behind. Yet, every race is significant. We always strive to maximise every position, every point.”
“And yes, the more we try to close the gap on Max, and as a team, the more we can catch up to Red Bull and the other constructors, the better. So, there’s no specific reason to try to beat someone or something in particular. It’s simply about continuing what we do because we’re doing a good job.”
The British driver reminds us that McLaren is currently a strong contender for podium finishes, if not the top two positions: “We’ve been confident for a while now, in both qualifying and the races, we’ve been strong.”
“I think our worst results are still third or fourth, but our best performances have been potential winning opportunities. So, once again, it’s a great chance for both of us and as a team to score significant points. And that’s our goal.”
Despite the fact that both McLarens dominate the front row, Norris is not worried about potential issues with Oscar Piastri: “Honestly, it’s something we will discuss, as we always have.”
“We’ve always kept things clean. I believe we’ve treated each other well, respected each other, and helped out when needed. So no, there are no concerns from our side.”
Piastri “not quite” as prepared as he would like
Piastri experienced a challenging day on Friday, with balance issues to resolve, and he admits he is not as prepared as he would like: “Yes and no. I think the first day was very instructive. I believe we’re starting from a good position. So, yes, perhaps not as much as I would have liked, but I’d say about 90%. So, no, I feel quite confident and we’ll see what we can do.”
Asked about his strategy for the start, the Australian admits he does not know what to expect from being on the front row, and he will be wary of the drivers behind him as they approach the first corner.
“I haven’t taken a start this high up in Budapest before. It’s a long run to Turn 1, and that creates an opportunity to have a trail behind. Last year, I started from fourth, got a clean start, and finished second.”
“So I know a lot can happen at Turn 1. We’ll see. I think getting a good start always helps things along. But it’s a long race. And there will be others involved, I’m sure.”
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Norris Targets Clean Run in Hunt for F1 Glory Norris Targets Clean Run in Hunt for F1 Glory
