P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Lando Norris is certain McLaren languishes a “long way off” the pace compared to its Formula 1 rivals based on the initial practice times at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. McLaren has been regarded as the benchmark side since the season resumed at Zandvoort last month as Norris has taken successive pole positions and a race […]
Since the season resumed, McLaren has been seen as the leading team, with Norris achieving pole positions and a race win. However, in Baku, Norris had a subdued performance, finishing 17th due to not completing his Soft compound run. McLaren teammate Oscar Piastri was also behind in pace. Norris acknowledges that McLaren has limitations and that they need to push their limits to be competitive. He feels that compared to their rivals, Mercedes, Ferrari, and Red Bull, McLaren still has a lot of work to do to improve their pace. The challenging track conditions in Baku have made it difficult for McLaren’s car to perform well, but Norris is determined to work hard to overcome the challenges faced by the team.
