Norris gains podium place in final F3 race

Lando Norris has signed off from Formula Three with a second-place podium at the Macau Grand Prix, and he now leaves that level to focus on Formula Two, which he will start this weekend with Campos Racing at the Yas Marina circuit in Abu Dhabi.

The 18-year-old became the youngest driver in history to claim the Formula Three European championship earlier this year, and was hoping to leave this level of the sport with a win in Macau, but eventually had to settle for second even after an impressive performance.

Following the race, Norris spoke to Motorsport and insisted that although he was happy with his season as a whole, he would have liked to sign off win a win.

“I came to Macau to win and finish off what has been a phenomenally successful F3 season on a high so I’m a little disappointed having only achieved second place especially as Carlin gave me a great car – as they have done all season. It’s been an enjoyable weekend and brings to an end a long week.

"My pace was pretty good, making up places but then the tyres went off and I lost a couple of positions. Second place in today’s GP is okay but credit to winner Dan [Ticktum] who did a great move on me as I challenged Maxi [Günther] for third going in to Lisbon"

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Norris will now move up a rank to Formula Two with his first race taking place at Yas Marina this weekend, and the young prodigy could barely contain his excitement as he explained what it means to make his debut at the track in Abu Dhabi.

“I now turn my attention to Abu Dhabi and making my F2 race debut next weekend and I can’t wait!" he continued.

"To race a F2 car and at such an amazing venue is super cool. Saturday’s 60-minute race will be the longest race I’ve ever done since I started racing.

"The duration, the physical aspect of racing a larger and more powerful car to the ones I’ve been used to combined with the heat in Abu Dhabi, and under floodlights, will make it a challenge but I’ve been training hard in preparation so don’t envisage any difficulties. Bring it on – I’m just super excited!”