Lando Norris Delivers Optimistic McLaren Message for Las Vegas GP

Lando Norris has provided McLaren with a hopeful message following the opening day of the Las Vegas Grand Prix, reporting a "better feeling" from his car than last year, right from his very first lap. This is a significant shift given McLaren's previous struggles at the Las Vegas Strip Circuit, where Norris' P6 in 2023 was their best performance.

Why it matters:

• McLaren has historically struggled on the unique Las Vegas track, making Norris's immediate positive feedback a crucial indicator of potential improvement.
• A strong performance in Las Vegas would signal McLaren's adaptability and ongoing development, especially on circuits that haven't traditionally suited their car.
• This optimism could boost the team's morale and confidence heading into qualifying and the race, a vital factor in the intensely competitive F1 midfield.

The Details:

• Despite predictions of struggle for Norris and Oscar Piastri, Norris finished second practice as the fastest driver, though the session was impacted by late red flags.
• Norris emphasized that the crucial factor was his car feeling significantly better than it did 12 months ago, a sentiment he felt from the first lap.
• Norris's Assessment: He acknowledged the tricky nature of the circuit but highlighted the improved car feeling as a positive.
• He noted the limited running, especially on high fuel, but confirmed that "the pace, clearly, is there."
• He anticipates a tight field, with many drivers not getting in their soft tire laps, suggesting that McLaren's current pace might be more indicative of their true standing.
• Norris expressed confidence in the team's progress from FP1 to FP2 and hopes for further improvements moving into FP3.

What's next:

Norris's newfound confidence suggests McLaren might be a dark horse in Las Vegas this year. If the positive trend continues through final practice and qualifying, Norris is aiming high.

• He is confident in the car's performance and has set an ambitious target of "fighting for pole" in Friday night's qualifying session.
• This represents a significant turnaround from their previous struggles and could mark a new chapter for McLaren at the Las Vegas Grand Prix.