Lando Norris insists McLaren are not comfortably faster than the rest of the field as Charles Leclerc’s penalty boosted McLaren’s hopes of winning the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
Ferrari had to change the energy storage in Leclerc’s car during FP1, which resulted in a 10-place grid penalty that further reduced their chances of overturning a 21-point deficit to McLaren in the fight for the constructors’ championship. Norris ran fastest ahead of teammate Oscar Piastri in FP2, the weekend’s key representative practice session, but downplayed how good the rankings make the team look.
“The car felt great all day long. So we kept the pace going in Qatar and the car felt strong,” Norris said. “I think there is room for improvement in both low and high fuel efficiency. [loads]Probably higher fuel.
“It definitely looks better than it does now. “Others don’t seem to have fired up their engines yet, so it may look glorious now, but I think it’s still going to be an uphill battle tomorrow.”
Still, Norris admitted the areas he would like to improve were more about fine-tuning rather than the major weaknesses facing McLaren.
“It’s nothing grand. “It’s a small thing,” he said. “We are trying to balance faster and save tires, especially on long distances. Where can we push further and where should we save? How can you save more on tires when you drive, with toys you can change on the steering wheel, and basic balance in your car? “The most important thing is to try to find the right compromise.”
Team principal Andrea Stella said the penalty on Leclerc did not put any pressure on McLaren as they look to secure their first constructors’ title since 1998.
“Not at all.” Stella said. “I guess you expected this answer! you’re welcome. We talk about Charles Leclerc. We talk about Ferrari. A very powerful combination. I think even with a penalty I wouldn’t be surprised to see them fighting for the front, top spot very quickly. So nothing changes. We stay calm, focused and energetic.”
