Lando Norris suggests that the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix demonstrated McLaren`s performance level is not significantly ahead of their competitors, contrary to recent suggestions.
His teammate, Oscar Piastri, secured victory in the race starting from second position, overtaking Norris in the championship standings. However, Piastri`s lead over Red Bull`s Max Verstappen was only 2.8 seconds, despite Verstappen incurring a five-second penalty during a pit stop. This penalty resulted from Verstappen cutting the first corner while battling with Piastri.
Norris himself achieved a commendable fourth-place finish, recovering from a qualifying crash that placed him tenth on the grid. He made a late push to overtake Charles Leclerc for third place but ultimately fell short by one second.
Addressing the strong performance of Red Bull and Ferrari, Norris commented, `I`m unsure why there`s such surprise. They`ve consistently shown similar pace in most sessions, matching us in race speed.`
He added, `Just because we show pace in practice, people jump to conclusions.`
`They can continue to speculate. We don`t consider ourselves significantly ahead, and today`s race reflected that. Max likely had the fastest car today if not for his penalty, indicating we still have progress to make.`
Reflecting on his race, Norris acknowledged his qualifying setback and the challenge of overtaking on the Jeddah circuit. Despite this, he expressed satisfaction with his fourth-place finish and the 12 points earned.
He stated he was `generally pleased` with his recovery and the result, though he admitted to making things `difficult for myself`.
`I believe this was the best outcome possible today,` Norris said, noting he now trails Piastri by 10 points in the championship after five races.
`It`s always disappointing to miss a podium finish. We were close. Judging these situations is always complex.`
`Charles raced well, particularly in the first stint, which allowed him a good tire strategy for the second half of the race.`
`I think I pitted only slightly later, not enough to catch him. Overall, I am pleased, although I tend to complicate matters for myself, especially in races like this. Starting at the front would simplify things considerably.`
`In some ways, it`s easier upfront, so I need to improve my Saturdays.`
Norris communicated a similar sentiment to his team via radio, stating, `I just need to focus on improving my Saturdays, and we`ll be in a good position.`
Formula 1 is heading to Miami for a Sprint weekend on May 2-4.
