Lando Norris is having a dream weekend in Brazil. After winning the sprint race at Interlagos earlier today, the Brit also secured pole position for the São Paulo Grand Prix. Among the title contenders, he held up by far the best. “It was tough under these conditions and it was very slippery,” Norris said afterwards. “But very fun, I always enjoy driving on this circuit.”
The McLaren driver locked up on his first fast lap, but kept his cool. “This put me under pressure, but I stayed calm and got it done when it really mattered,” said Norris, who has been in top form in recent weeks. With his double success on Saturday, he also strengthens his leading position in the world championship. Teammate Oscar Piastri will start fourth tomorrow, while Max Verstappen could only manage a disappointing sixteenth place.
“I’m in good form and the team is also delivering a very good car,” Norris confirmed. “I haven’t always made it easy for them or myself this year. But I still have to push and sometimes still put unnecessary pressure on myself, like in qualifying today. But when I’m in a good rhythm and can stay calm, then I’m at the top.”
Norris is aware of the opportunities and the threat for Sunday. On the first starting row, he stands next to Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli, who impressed with his second time. “They are fast and I know that Kimi will keep pushing until the bitter end,” said Norris. “It will be a challenge tomorrow and we also have to wait and see what the weather will do. So far my weekend is going well, so I hope they won’t disrupt that.”
