Norris: We knew this track would suit us a lot more

Norris edged out Mercedes driver George Russell by just 0.063 seconds in Sprint Qualifying ay Lusail, while teammate Oscar Piastri qualified third, marking a strong start for McLaren in their pursuit of their first constructors' championship since 1998.

The result offered Norris a chance to bounce back following his championship defeat in Las Vegas, where Max Verstappen clinched his fourth consecutive drivers' title. Verstappen, who will start Saturday’s sprint from sixth, mocked Norris for failing to convert McLaren's perceived car advantage into a title.

“It is so quick around here, and it feels like the quickest of the year,” said Norris after the session. “It feels like you are hanging on. It was a great qualifying, especially to bounce back from where we were in Vegas. We came here to get pole, and we did that, so job done.”

Norris acknowledged the importance of maintaining momentum for the sprint: “I want to win tomorrow. Our target is a one-two finish, and we want to maximise points for the constructors’ championship, but I am not expecting an easy race. Mercedes will be quick, and Ferrari will be up there, too.”

Norris highlighted the team's confidence in the track’s suitability. “We knew this track would suit us a lot more. Looking back at last year, it was one of our strongest circuits, so we expected to come here and be quick. It was probably a bit closer than what I would have liked, honestly.

“In practice, we were quick but still struggling quite a bit and a good step off the Ferraris. Into qualifying, we made some improvements, but I think the car really took a step forward, and I could extract a lot more out of it. Happy with today’s job for sure, but the real job is ahead," added Norris.

Oscar Piastri, who will start third, was also pleased with his session despite minor setbacks. “Reasonably happy. It wasn’t the greatest lap of my life, but in these conditions, it’s tough,” said the Australian. “Struggled a bit at the start, but I felt like I was in the groove at the end—just very fine margins. This track is mega to drive around. There’s a lot more grip than last year, so the high-speed corners are a lot of fun.”

Saturday’s 19-lap sprint race serves as a precursor to Sunday’s main event, with McLaren aiming to capitalise on their strong start and close the gap in the constructors’ standings.