F1 News: McLaren's Lando Norris on Sprint Races - Showcase Of Driver Skill

McLaren's Lando Norris endorses the F1 sprint format for its ability to highlight genuine driver expertise.

McLaren's Lando Norris voiced his appreciation for Formula 1's sprint weekend format, emphasising its potential to spotlight driver prowess. As the tussle between McLaren and Aston Martin for fourth in the constructors’ championship heats up, Norris and his team hope to gain the upper hand in Austin.

Key Takeaways:

• With only a five-round gap left in the season, McLaren eyes to overtake Aston Martin. The difference between the two rivals stood at a mere 11 points ahead of the Austin Grand Prix weekend.
• Lando Norris, after a commendable performance so far in Austin, expressed his favour for the sprint events, citing their ability to better represent a driver's true skill set.

McLaren driver Lando Norris seems to have an affinity for the newer Sprint format. The team, especially with Oscar Piastri, has shone in the previous sprint events in Belgium and Qatar. The Australian rookie, Piastri, not only finished ahead of Norris in both races but also clinched the top position in Losail.

However, the tables have turned slightly in Austin. Norris demonstrated his racing acumen by out-qualifying Piastri in both the regular and sprint qualifiers. His competence and belief in the format were evident in his post-shootout remarks. 

F1 News: Lando Norris Reflects On "Bad Job" Despite McLaren's Strong Showing

"Yes, I'm satisfied," commented Norris. "I did a better lap today than yesterday, but it was still not enough to get a pole. I felt better in the car than yesterday, but I wasn't the fastest. I believe this format shows a driver's talent better than the typical race weekend."

The Austin GP Sprint Race saw McLaren close the gap to Aston Martin to just 6 points ahead of the Grand Prix tomorrow. Norris crossed the line in fourth position with Piastri in tenth.

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