McLaren predict a 'tight' qualifying in Austria

McLaren driver Carlos Sainz expects qualifying for the Formula 1 season opening Austrian Grand Prix to be a keenly fought contest.

In second practice on Friday, little over half a second separated positions five to 15. Only Mercedes consistently showed pace stronger than that of the midfield.

"We are starting to see the pecking order a little better, and we are up for a tight Saturday" said Sainz.

Both Sainz and teammate Lando Norris damaged their cars on the harsh Austrian kerbs on Friday - Norris causing significant damage to the floor and bargeboards while Sainz dislodged his front wing, running onto the kerbs after being told to steer clear.

He added: "We had some challenges and need to keep an eye on those yellow kerbs. I ran over one on my flying lap which cost me time on the final sector. Another minor issue kept me in the garage towards the end of the session but until then the car was showing a decent pace."

Both cars ended Friday inside the top ten, but with the sixth fastest time, Norris ended the day the faster of the two.

Norris said: "The first few laps are a bit of a shock to the body, because there’s nothing like driving an F1 car, but it’s great to be back. We got through our run plan, we did a good number of laps and I’m pretty happy with the car."

Before you go...

Formula 1 reports zero positive Covid tests

Button sceptical over Ferrari's pandemic excuse for axing Vettel

Related

More F1 news

Latest F1 news

F1 star doesn't hold back after Lewis Hamilton drama: 'Prime example of how not to do it'

• 19 minutes ago

F1 News Today: Max Verstappen told to block 'GP' move as star in $70million contract talks

• 1 hour ago

Williams F1 team announce Alex Albon driver replacement for Italian Grand Prix

• 1 hour ago

F1 2027 Grid: The 7 seats still open with Alonso future now clearer as signing confirmed

• 2 hours ago

F1 Silly Season: Max Verstappen, Fernando Alonso and every driver move tracked

• 3 hours ago

Alpine F1 confirm driver lineup for 2027 after Fernando Alonso rumours

• Today 13:29