McLaren’s Canadian GP Qualifying: Norris Struggles Amidst High Hopes
Montreal, Canada – McLaren’s Lando Norris faced a disappointing qualifying session for the Canadian Grand Prix, ultimately securing a seventh-place starting position. Team principal Andrea Stella attributed this result to Norris “trying too hard” in a bid for competitive lap times.
After a difficult Friday—characterized by what Stella termed the team’s "worst" performance of the season—Norris rebounded in final practice, recording the fastest lap ahead of qualifying. However, during the decisive Q3 session, he encountered challenges that hindered his performance. Norris admitted to making "a couple of big mistakes" which undermined his qualifying attempt.
Stella noted the notable dichotomy in performance, stating, “Despite the outcome in Q3, there are steps forward in how comfortable Lando is in the car.” Although Norris managed to reach Q3 on a set of used tires in Q2, his final attempt was marred by contact with the wall, diminishing his chances for a front-row start. Stella emphasized the need for control: “Sometimes you have to accept that you can’t always go 100%, especially when a little mistake can be so costly.”
Norris’s teammate Oscar Piastri will start from third position. Piastri opted against McLaren’s new front suspension upgrade during qualifying, a strategic choice that contrasts with Norris’s decision to utilize the updated technology. Stella shared insights on the suspension modifications aimed at enhancing driver feedback, stating, "The speed is there… I’m sure he’s up there and fighting for pole position” if not for the overexertion.
In summary, McLaren’s challenges at Montreal highlight the delicate balance of performance and precision in Formula 1, particularly under the pressures of competitive qualifying sessions.
