Abu Dhabi – Norris ready to pounce but “a little nervous”

Lando Norris will find itself facing a big dilemma this Sunday at the start of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. Author of a superb performance in Q3, the driver McLaren will in fact position itself just behind the inevitable duo composed of the poleman Max Verstappen (Red Bull) and its great rival Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes).

This is his best qualifying result since his pole position in Sochi (Russia) last September.

« My first lap in Q3 had already been good but my second attempt was really clean, smiled the British troublemaker as he got out of the car. I tried to go for pole but it didn't happen... (Laughs). All joking aside, it’s already good to finish 3rd.

We were convinced of a good performance in qualifying since the start of the weekend, but I did not expect to start so high on the grid. I am very happy with my lap in Q3. It was a very clean attempt where I managed to put everything end to end ».

Having come very close to a first career victory this season, especially in Sochi where he led most of the race before being surprised by a downpour and a bad strategic choice in the final loops, will Norris be able to tame the competitor in him so as not to interfere too much with the fight for the title that everyone is waiting for?

In any case, the 22-year-old pilot seems too worried about the potential consequences to tempt the devil.

« I'm a little nervous, he always admitted with a big smile. On the one hand, I want to stay where I am and watch the scenario unfold before my eyes. I don't want to be involved because it can cause quite a controversy.

I don't really know what to do. Should I try something? Am I holding back? I will do my best and if I get a chance I will jump at it.

I have the best seat to watch their duel. I'm in the front row and I'll see what happens. It’s a real pleasure to be in this position when you see everything that has happened between Max and Lewis this season. I have a lot of respect for both ».

And if by chance there were to be trouble up front, or if the two rivals neutralized each other at the strategic level, there is no doubt that Norris will be keen to pull the chestnuts out of the fire. After all, Verstappen and Hamilton have much more to lose than the McLaren driver...