Formula One: Lando Norris Cuts Verstappen’s Lead
Sprint Qualifying Victory for McLaren’s Norris
Lando Norris cut Max Verstappen’s Formula One lead to 44 points after his McLaren teammate Oscar Piastri obeyed orders and gifted the Briton a sprint-race victory in Sao Paulo on Saturday.
Piastri’s Heroic Effort
Piastri had started on pole position and led until handing over two laps from the end after Red Bull’s Verstappan had passed Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc for third and became an increasing threat. The switch came just before a virtual safety car (VSC) period left a tense final lap with Australian Piastri crossing the line 0.593 behind Norris in a one-two finish.
Verstappen’s Disappointment
Verstappen finished third, 0.904 further adrift, but was handed a five-second penalty for a VSC infringement that dropped him back behind Leclerc. The triple champion was also given a penalty point.
Norris’ Humility
"Oscar drove well and he deserved the win today. I’m not proud of winning a sprint race or any race like this, so I thank Oscar and the team," said Norris, who started second on the grid. "But it’s our objective, it’s what we have to work towards as a team. We get the points in the constructors’ and I get the points in the drivers’. That’s our target."
McLaren’s Rise to the Top
McLaren are now 34 points clear of Ferrari in the constructors’ standings after a gain of five. Verstappen and Leclerc had a lively battle for third before the Red Bull overtook on the 18th of 24 laps and Nico Hulkenberg then triggered the virtual safety car by stopping by the side of the track in a smouldering Haas on lap 21.
Conclusion
The main Sao Paulo Grand Prix is on Sunday, with qualifying later on Saturday. Lando Norris’ victory is a significant boost for McLaren, who are now 34 points clear of Ferrari in the constructors’ standings. The team’s strategy to prioritize the team result over individual performance paid off, with Piastri’s heroic effort securing a one-two finish for the team.
FAQs
- What is the current lead in the Formula One championship?
Lando Norris has cut Max Verstappen’s lead to 44 points. - Who won the sprint race in Sao Paulo?
Lando Norris won the sprint race, with Oscar Piastri finishing second. - What was the outcome of the virtual safety car period?
The virtual safety car period dropped Verstappen back behind Leclerc, and he was also given a penalty point.