McLaren Duo Norris and Piastri Lock Out Front Row Before…read more
In a thrilling qualifying session at the Japanese Grand Prix, McLaren’s Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri have locked out the front row, only to be disrupted by Max Verstappen’s late surge.
The McLaren duo had set impressive times earlier in the session, with Norris posting a lap time of 1:30.052 and Piastri not far behind at 1:30.122. The pair had looked set to start on the front row, but Verstappen had other plans.
Verstappen, who has been dominant all season, made a late push to take the top spot on the grid. The Dutch driver posted a lap time of 1:29.922, edging out Norris and Piastri by a mere 0.2 seconds.
“I’m really happy with the car and the team’s performance today,” Verstappen said in a post-qualifying interview. “We made some adjustments overnight, and it paid off. The track is really challenging, but I enjoy driving here.”
Norris and Piastri were pleased with their initial performance, but were understandably disappointed to be pushed off the top spot.
“It’s been a good weekend so far, and I’m happy to be starting on the front row,” Norris said. “Max is always going to be quick, but we’re close enough to challenge him tomorrow.”
Piastri added, “It’s an amazing feeling to be starting on the second row. The team has done an incredible job, and I’m looking forward to the race tomorrow.”
The qualifying session was filled with drama, as several drivers struggled with the challenging Suzuka circuit. Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc and Red Bull’s Yuki Tsunoda were among those who failed to make the top 10.
The Japanese Grand Prix is set to be a thrilling race, with Verstappen, Norris, and Piastri all vying for the top spot on the podium.
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