Norris Struggles in Qualifying for Canadian Grand Prix
Lando Norris faced a challenging qualifying session at the Formula 1 Canadian Grand Prix, ultimately securing a seventh-place start after admitting to "a couple of big mistakes." The McLaren driver, who trails teammate Oscar Piastri by 10 points in the championship standings, cited errors including contact with the wall at Turn 7 during his final lap.
McLaren, despite their season-long competitive edge, found themselves hampered by the unique demands of Circuit Gilles Villeneuve. Piastri qualified third, behind Red Bull’s Max Verstappen and Mercedes’ polesitter George Russell, heightening Norris’s disappointment.
“It’s just very low grip,” Norris noted, emphasizing the impact of track conditions and heavy curb usage on their performance. “The car balance just never comes together as much as what it does on other tracks,” he added.
Despite the setback, Norris remained optimistic about the race, acknowledging that a podium finish would be difficult. "I think a podium’s tough, just because we don’t have the pace we’ve had in the last few races," he said, while also considering potential strategies involving one, two, or three pit stops depending on tire behavior.
As the team leads the Constructors’ Championship by 197 points, Norris is aware of the need to regain ground not just against Piastri but also in the overall standings. “I was happy through all the qualifying," stated Norris, "but it’s going to be a bit more difficult than it has been on other tracks."
The race promises to be a test of strategy and adaptability as teams navigate the challenges of the Canadian circuit.
