McLaren had to fall behind both Mercedes cars on Friday during the sprint qualifying for the Canadian GP. After a difficult first free practice, both Lando Norris (P3) and Oscar Piastri (P4) were ultimately satisfied with the result. The MCL40 has been equipped with the necessary upgrades in recent weeks. The effect of those adjustments is difficult to assess at the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, but the initial signs are positive according to both drivers.
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“After this morning, we were a bit worried about how much we were lacking,” responded Norris, who had finished sixth in FP1. “Especially the lack of confidence in the car played a big role then,” he added. “We then adjusted a few things and that seemed to immediately bring a good improvement. I’m happy with that.”
In the sprint qualifying, Norris ultimately clocked the third fastest time, behind George Russell and Kimi Antonelli. “It wasn’t my best lap; there was definitely more in it,” noted the reigning world champion. “But when I saw the gap to the guys ahead, it was not as bad as I thought. So it’s a positive turnaround and I’m proud of the team that we have made such a good step in such a short time.”
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Upgrade package
Norris remained cautiously optimistic about the upgraded McLaren. “The car felt pretty good, although some things are still a bit uncertain,” he said. “We need more time to analyze everything properly, especially because this is such a strange circuit. There is little grip, you constantly bounce over the kerbstones and therefore you don’t always get a completely clear picture. But the car clearly worked better, especially in SQ3,” he concluded positively. “Especially on the soft tire, I felt real confidence for the first time this weekend.”
Teammate Oscar Piastri was also satisfied with his fourth place time. “I think it was a messy day for everyone,” he responded. “Mercedes still looks very strong, but that’s not the only conclusion we can draw today.” The Australian hopes to benefit on Saturday from the fact that Mercedes – and especially Kimi Antonelli – have not had the strongest starts this season. “Our starts have been better than Ferrari’s all year, so we have confidence in that,” he focused on the two Ferraris on the third starting row. “Mercedes will eventually get that under control too, but until then we will try to take advantage of it.”
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