Source: Official Team Post via X
Norris and Piastri Reflect on McLaren's Singapore Qualifying Performance
Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri discuss their qualifying results for the Singapore Grand Prix, acknowledging McLaren's position behind the pace-setters. Despite a collision in the Sprint, both drivers see the results as a fair reflection of the car's current capabilities.
After a less-than-ideal Sprint race in Singapore, McLaren's Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri found themselves reflecting on their qualifying performances. Norris, who secured fifth on the grid, seemed resigned yet realistic about McLaren's current standing. The reigning World Champion was just over three-tenths behind Max Verstappen, who clinched pole position, and finished behind the Ferraris and Mercedes. "I think in the end we're kind of where we should be," Norris commented, acknowledging that despite piecing together strong sectors, the car remains a challenge. "It's just too difficult," he added, noting the near-impossibility of pushing to the limit without compromising the tyres.
The day wasn't without drama, as a collision between Norris and Piastri in the Sprint sent both into a spin. Piastri managed seventh in qualifying, but thanks to a grid penalty for George Russell, he will start sixth. The Australian echoed Norris's sentiments, admitting McLaren was "the third or fourth quickest" car, falling behind Red Bull, Ferrari, and Mercedes. "Bit of a shame," Piastri remarked, "I was hoping we had a bit more, but I think that was pretty much all we had."
Despite the earlier tangle in the Sprint, which saw no further action from the stewards, both drivers appear to be taking the outcome in stride. With the MCL40's current limitations, Norris and Piastri are set to face a challenging race, but hope remains for a better showing on race day.