Downbeat Norris: 'Not in a great place' as McLaren lose pace

Lando Norris was a downbeat figure after Friday practice, admitting McLaren are 'not in a great place' after a frustrating day at the track. The 2026 championship contender struggled for pace, leaving him and the team with plenty of work to do before qualifying.

Why it matters:

McLaren have been the team to beat this season, with Norris consistently fighting at the front. A sudden loss of pace is a major concern, especially with the championship battle so tight. If they can't recover overnight, it could hand an advantage to their rivals.

The details:

• Norris ended the session outside the top three, a rare sight for the McLaren driver in 2026.
• The Brit reported a lack of rear grip and poor balance through the high-speed corners, making the car difficult to drive.
• Teammate comparison: Oscar Piastri fared slightly better but also admitted the car wasn't where it should be.
• Setup direction: The team experimented with different wing levels, but neither seemed to unlock the expected performance.
• Tyre degradation: Both drivers struggled with graining on the soft compound, limiting their long-run data.

What's next:

McLaren will work through the night to understand the issue, with a focus on finding a setup that gives Norris more confidence. Qualifying will be a true test of where they stand, and Norris knows he needs a clean lap to avoid losing ground in the title fight.