P1racenews AI automatic summary:
McLaren boss Andrea Stella has revealed the reason why the team opted to use an alternative run plan in qualifying for the Formula 1 Monaco Grand Prix.
McLaren team chose to use “slightly used tyres” in qualifying for the Monaco Grand Prix, a decision that paid off with Lando Norris claiming a brilliant pole position by beating Charles Leclerc.
This pole position was a crucial moment for Norris, as it was his first since Australia and a reassurance for the team following their underwhelming performance at Imola.
By opting for slightly used tyres, McLaren gained an advantage as the drivers found them easier to exploit, resulting in faster lap times in Q3.
Norris’s pole position gives him the opportunity to potentially recover in the championship race, facing competition from Leclerc and teammate Oscar Piastri, while also dealing with the added pressure of a new two-stop rule introduced by the FIA.
With a win in Monaco, Norris could strengthen his title chances and overcome the challenges he has faced in the 2025 season, marking a significant achievement in his career.
