Lando Norris stunned by "epic" front-row qualifying

Norris in Ausatria — Photo: © LAT Images

Austrian Grand Prix

Norris stunned by "epic" front-row qualifying

Norris scored the first front-row berth of his F1 career

Sam Hall

Saturday 3 July 2021 16:25

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Lando Norris described it as "epic" to have registered the first front-row qualifying position of his F1 career at the Austrian Grand Prix.

Norris has been a constant thorn in the side of championship combatants Red Bull and Mercedes in the opening races of the season and remains 12 points ahead of Valtteri Bottas in the standings.

After appearing to struggle for pace in final practice, Norris showed his class in qualifying, setting a time just 0.048secs slower than polesitter Max Verstappen.

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"I feel epic," said the McLaren driver. "It was cool. I guess after the last race I wanted to do that one more step and I did two more so it's nice.

"It puts us in a good position for tomorrow. It was probably one of the best laps I have done I think so it was a good feeling and it's just lovely to share this moment."

Orange army for McLaren, not Max

The easing of Covid-restrictions in Austria has allowed for a full house at the Red Bull Ring this weekend and the traditional 'orange army' of Verstappen fans have duly descended on the track.

Showing his appreciation for the roaring fans, Norris joked: "The fans are cool here. Everyone in orange supporting McLaren, not Max! So it's cool to have them back."

Reflecting on what to expect on Sunday, Norris added: "I know tomorrow's race will be tough but we did the best job we could today.

"I'm a bit gutted I didn't get pole, but I'm happy with P2."