P1racenews AI automatic summary:
McLaren had pace for "second or third" on tight Bahrain F1 grid
Norris and Piastri displayed strong single-lap speed during a highly competitive qualifying session after Max Verstappen of Red Bull. Despite difficulties in Q3, they finished in seventh and eighth places respectively. The small margins in the 2024 season are proving costly for any qualifying errors made. Norris acknowledged the challenges faced in Q3, citing possible wind changes affecting his lap times. While Piastri also had a tough day, he noted McLaren’s substantial improvements since last year’s Bahrain opener. Both drivers remain optimistic about McLaren’s potential and competitiveness in the upcoming race, anticipating close battles and strategy playing a significant role.
