Before the weekend at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix got underway, there was a lot of talk regarding the news that McLaren would prioritise Lando Norris for the rest of the season, and whether would he be able to catch up to Max Verstappen in the declining RB20.
However, that was all turned on its head after a shock Q1 elimination for the Brit, meaning he will start the Grand Prix in Baku in P17.
Norris Says Elimination Was “Unlucky”
Although Verstappen could only qualify in P6, Norris’ mistake means the chance to close the 62-point gap in the drivers’ championship may be over. Speaking to Sky Sports after finishing in P17, the McLaren driver said: “Everyone did their second laps and I didn’t. It was unlucky, that’s all. I had to lift. It is what it is. There’s a long race ahead, we have some good tyres in the bank. I’m still hopeful we can get a good result. I think the car is quick. Bit frustrating, but nothing I can do.”
His teammate Oscar Piastri was able to finish right behind Charles Leclerc in pole position, showing the pace that McLaren have around the Baku City Circuit. However, from 17th on the gird, it will have to be a very good recovery drive for Norris jut to get into the points in tomorrow’s Grand Prix.
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