Norris regrets not achieving pole in Qatar: Piastri wins in qualifying

Lando Norris, visibly disappointed, failed to surpass his teammate and rival for the title, Oscar Piastri, in the qualifying for the Qatar Grand Prix. A mistake on his last fast lap cost him the coveted pole position. Norris will start the race from second position, just behind Piastri, after aborting his last attempt by going slightly off track at Turn 2. A victory on Sunday would secure Norris his first world title, regardless of his rivals’ positions. However, if he crosses the finish line behind Piastri, the fight for the championship would extend to the last race in Abu Dhabi.

I’m quite disappointed.

Lando Norris

Norris expressed his frustration, especially because he felt he had improved his performance after Friday night’s sprint qualifying.

The British driver commented to Sky Sports:

Yesterday [in the sprint classification] I didn’t feel I had the pace for pole, but today I felt much more comfortable.

Lando Norris

I was convinced I would be on pole, but I’m not, so I’m quite disappointed with myself for that, especially since my qualifying lately has been quite strong.

Lando Norris

I suppose I can’t always be great and always be on pole, but today was a missed opportunity on my part. But the focus is on tomorrow.

Lando Norris

After the first three drivers finished Saturday’s sprint race in the same position they started, Norris was not optimistic about his chances of overtaking Piastri on Sunday.

I’m second, so there’s not much chance of winning at the moment.

Lando Norris

But yes, I’m just focusing on trying to get a good start. There’s a long run to turn one, it’s a good opportunity for anyone to gain or lose positions. Other than that, I think it’s going to be a pretty boring and straightforward race.

Lando Norris

When asked how he would sleep knowing he has the opportunity to secure his first F1 title on Sunday, Norris joked:

I hope badly, because normally the worse I sleep, the better I do.

Lando Norris