F1 News: Lando Norris Takes Blame After Abu Dhabi Qualifying - "So Disappointed In Myself"

Lando Norris's disappointment following the Abu Dhabi qualifying rounds was palpable.

Lando Norris expressed deep disappointment over his performance in the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix qualifying, blaming himself for missing a potential pole position. His mistake in the final run of Q3 led to a significant setback, falling behind in the rankings despite a strong start.

Key Takeaways

• During the final stages of Q3 at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Lando Norris was in a promising position to secure pole, trailing just behind Max Verstappen. However, a critical error in the last sector cost him dearly, resulting in a fall behind Charles Leclerc, Oscar Piastri, and George Russell.
• Norris openly acknowledged his disappointment, stating that he had the chance to clinch the top spot but let it slip due to his mistake. He refrained from blaming external factors, instead focusing on his own performance and the missed opportunity.
• Reflecting on his pace and performance, Norris believed he had the potential to secure pole position. He emphasised the 'should have, would have, could have' aspect of his performance, expressing regret over not capitalising on his advantageous position.

In a revealing conversation with Sky Sports F1, Lando Norris shared his frustrations and self-criticism following the qualifying round at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. Norris, who was closely trailing behind the pole-sitter Max Verstappen after the first Q3 laps, saw his chances for pole position diminish after a significant error.

The critical moment came under the hotel between Turns 13 and 14, where Norris experienced a major slide, causing him to lose substantial time. This error allowed competitors Charles Leclerc, Oscar Piastri, and George Russell to surpass him. Reflecting on this, Norris said:

"The car was very good out there. I was on a lap quick enough to go P1, but didn't do it. Another Saturday that I've thrown away, disappointed.

"It was the mistake in the last sector that ruined everything. I don't know what happened. The car ahead, I'm not going to blame him for getting in my way, it makes the tiniest difference but we are close enough on the limit on the final qualifying lap, that the tiniest difference can upset the car completely, like I had.

"A shame because it should have been very different, so disappointed in myself.

"Yep [I had the pace for pole position]. Again 'should have, would have, could have' stuff from me. A shame. I was three tenths up and threw it all away."

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