Lando Norris reflected on his recent Sprint battle with Antonelli, noting the intense competition he faced. He commented, “I learned that Kimi pushes all the way to the very end. In some ways I’m looking forward to it, and in some ways I’m not.” Norris expressed anticipation for the challenges ahead, particularly regarding the fluctuating weather conditions that could impact the race.
Throughout the weekend, the track conditions saw minor improvements after a damp Sprint session, though wind continued to present challenges during Qualifying. Teams such as Haas and Racing Bulls were vying for a better position, showcasing the competitiveness within the midfield.
Norris described the Qualifying session as tough due to the slippery and inconsistent conditions. He stated, “It’s always a pleasure around this track, so I felt good,” highlighting the enjoyable nature of the circuit despite the difficulties faced. He admitted to feeling pressure after locking up on his initial lap but managed to stay calm and delivered when it counted, expressing satisfaction with his performance.
Acknowledging the role of his team in providing a strong car, he said, “I’ve always got to thank the team.” However, he recognized the self-imposed pressure he felt during the session, indicating that maintaining a good rhythm and composure would lead to better results. Norris remains focused on improving and is hopeful for a strong performance moving forward.