Friday was an intense day on the track for Lando Norris, but it wasn’t just about speed.
- Norris focused less on his car’s setup, zeroing in on his own driving skills.
- Despite feeling a bit disconnected with McLaren’s MCL39, he ended the day more confident.
- Teammate Oscar Piastri had upgrades, while Norris worked without them.
- The goal was understanding and adjusting to the car’s unique handling.
As the Saudi Arabian skies loomed over the circuit, Lando Norris dedicated his Friday not solely to his car’s performance but rather to honing his driving skills. This decision emerged from recent expressions of discomfort with McLaren’s MCL39. Norris is not new to challenges, and with the glow of his previous Australian GP win, he redirected focus to personal improvement on this hectic day.
Racing alongside teammate Oscar Piastri, Norris posted competitive times even without the benefit of recent upgrades. He clocked in at a swift 1:28.267 using used soft Pirelli tires, closely trailing Piastri by under two-tenths of a second. Piastri’s car, unlike Norris’s, sported a new rear wing spec, tested during the offseason and Australian practice sessions. Despite differing car setups, both drivers pushed McLaren’s competitive envelope further, crucial in deciding their final spec choice for the race weekend.
However, it wasn’t just about the numbers on Friday. Norris dove deep into understanding the balance and handling intricacies of the MCL39. “It’s all about learning and adapting,” Norris commented, reflecting a mix of chaos and strategy. His confidence began to build up through the trials of the day. While the circuit demanded attention, Norris prioritized understanding his body’s interaction with the car over just component tests.
According to Mark Temple, McLaren’s technical director, this period of adjustment hinges on Norris’s sensitivity as a driver. Described as exceptionally aware of his car’s nuances, this sensitivity can both aid and complicate the tuning process. With new changes introduced to the MCL39, clear insights into their impacts are murky, needing careful evaluation to ensure enhancements don’t inadvertently hinder performance.
There remained a close eye on competitors like Max Verstappen who sneaked into the third spot, indicating a tight battle ahead. Norris acknowledged the competition’s proximity and expressed a desire for a larger gap. He emphasized focusing on their strengths and individual advancements. Proving their pace while ensuring the drivers are comfortable continues to be a balancing act for McLaren.
Friday’s efforts by Lando Norris seem to have aligned his focus, steering McLaren towards a promising performance.
