2024 started better for the team based in Woking compared to last year, but they have not yet reached the same level of success they had in the latter part of the previous year, when they competed for podiums and even won a Sprint race with Piastri.
However, McLaren achieved their best collective Qualifying performance of the year so far at the Australian Grand Prix. Norris will start in fourth position, while Piastri will start in sixth for the 58-lap race.
Throughout the weekend, Norris consistently showed better speed, leading the times in the first practice session and surpassing Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc to secure a spot on the second row in the final qualifying session.
When asked about McLaren’s progress this season, Norris commented: “We have made improvements in some areas. Every weekend, we try to make small adjustments to the car to improve its performance. I believe we have done the best we could, while others may not have maximized their potential.”
“It is evident from today’s performance that we have been slightly ahead of our main competitors. Perhaps some have not achieved their desired results, but we have. Furthermore, we have a strong car this weekend, better than the previous weekend,” Norris added.
Just like the MCL60 in 2023, McLaren’s MCL38 seems to stand out on circuits with multiple high-speed corners. Norris believes this is one of the reasons they were able to compete with Ferrari and Red Bull in qualifying.
He further explained: “The layout of this circuit is a bit different, which may have worked in our favor more than for others. There are several high-speed corners that benefit our car on this track.”
Norris também foi questionado sobre o bom início de temporada de seu companheiro de equipe Piastri, marcando seu segundo ano na Fórmula 1. Norris expressou que a velocidade imediata de Piastri é evidente e que ele parece estar melhorando continuamente a cada sessão, destacando seu crescimento em comparação com sua temporada de estreia.
Piastri, que está participando de sua corrida em casa pela segunda vez, reside em Melbourne, a apenas 15 minutos de carro do Circuito Albert Park. Compreensivelmente, o piloto australiano está animado para o Grande Prêmio da Austrália. Ele mencionou se sentir relaxado e observou que mais pessoas o reconhecem desta vez, o que ele acha legal. No geral, Piastri acredita que tem sido uma semana positiva até agora.
Partindo da terceira fila para a corrida, o piloto de 22 anos compartilhou suas expectativas, reconhecendo o desafio pela frente. Embora suas corridas parecessem promissoras, Piastri reconheceu a força dos carros ao seu redor, especialmente aqueles à frente. Para superar a Red Bull ou a Ferrari, eles precisarão encontrar algo a mais ou contar com um pouco de sorte. No entanto, Piastri afirmou que se conseguirem manter sua posição de largada e não perder terreno, seria um resultado satisfatório para eles.
O Grande Prêmio da Austrália começará no domingo, 24 de março, às 04:00 GMT (15:00 horário local). Como as “melhorias” da McLaren se sairão nas ruas de Melbourne durante a corrida?
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The Formula 1 driver, Max Verstappen, achieved an impressive victory at the Brazilian Grand Prix on Sunday. Verstappen, from the Red Bull team, surpassed his rivals to secure the first place on the podium. The race was thrilling from start to finish, with Verstappen showing exceptional skill and speed. He led most of the race and managed to stay ahead of the other competitors until the checkered flag. This victory puts Verstappen in an even better position in the world championship for drivers.
The race began with Verstappen starting in pole position. He maintained his position at the start and quickly opened up a gap over the other drivers. Lewis Hamilton, from the Mercedes team, tried to keep up with Verstappen’s pace, but couldn’t reach him. Verstappen showed flawless performance and didn’t make any mistakes throughout the race.
While Verstappen led the race, there were several exciting battles throughout the rest of the grid. Sergio Perez, from the Red Bull team, fought against Valtteri Bottas, from Mercedes, for the third position. The two drivers engaged in a fierce battle, but Perez managed to stay ahead and secure third place.
At the end of the race, Verstappen crossed the finish line with a comfortable lead over Hamilton. It was a dominant victory for the Dutch driver, who showed his skill and determination. With this win, Verstappen increased his lead in the world championship for drivers and is closer to clinching the title.
The next race of the Formula 1 season will be the Mexican Grand Prix, which will take place next weekend. Verstappen is confident and hopes to continue with his exceptional performance. It will be interesting to see if he can maintain his lead and secure another victory.
Verstappen’s victory in the Brazilian Grand Prix was an exciting moment for Formula 1 fans. With his impressive skill and speed, he once again proved why he is one of the best drivers today. Fans are now looking forward to the next race and hoping to see more exciting action on the tracks.
