Norris Claims São Paulo Sprint Pole in Nail-Biting Session
Lando Norris delivered a masterclass in qualifying to secure pole for the São Paulo Sprint Race, beating Max Verstappen by just 0.061 seconds. The McLaren driver’s late surge in SQ3 at Interlagos sets up a high-stakes showdown in Saturday’s Sprint as he chases crucial championship points.
Norris vs. Verstappen: A Tight Battle
Changing track conditions made tire strategy pivotal after a rain-disrupted FP1. Norris consistently outperformed rivals, saving his best for the final moments of SQ3. Verstappen initially looked set for pole, but Norris’s 1:10.622 lap snatched the top spot—his second Sprint pole this season after Qatar.
Title Race Heats Up
Norris, second in the standings, gains valuable momentum with this result. Verstappen (P2) remains the championship favorite, while Lewis Hamilton (P3) eyes a Sprint podium. Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc (P4) and struggling Red Bull driver Sergio Pérez (P5) round out the top five.
McLaren’s Remarkable Comeback
McLaren’s mid-season resurgence continues, with Norris showcasing their upgraded pace. Teammate Oscar Piastri (P7) adds depth, strengthening their Constructors’ Championship bid. Team principal Andrea Stella praised Norris’s “exceptional composure” under pressure.
What to Watch in the Sprint Race
With Verstappen strong in race trim and Hamilton lurking, the 24-lap Sprint promises intense battles. Key storylines:
– Can Norris convert pole into a win?
– Will Pérez rebound from another disappointing qualifying?
– Can Ferrari and Mercedes disrupt Red Bull and McLaren?
Final Word
Norris’s pole intensifies the title fight. A Sprint victory would further close the gap to Verstappen—but the Dutchman won’t relent. Saturday’s action at Interlagos is not to be missed.
