McLaren’s Lando Norris grabbed pole for Saturday’s sprint race at Interlagos, but team boss Andrea Stella isn’t counting anyone out just yet.
The papaya cars continued their impressive run with Norris leading the way and teammate Oscar Piastri claiming third on the grid. Surprising everyone, Mercedes junior driver Kimi Antonelli split the McLarens by taking second.
“The drivers have been extremely close in free practice one, extremely close in qualifying. I think that’s the story of the entire season, in fairness, between Lando and Oscar,” Stella told Sky Sports after qualifying.
It’s a great position for McLaren heading into the sprint race. But Stella knows the competition is right on their heels.
The Italian team boss is keeping a close eye on several rivals who could challenge his drivers.
“Verstappen, we know, is Verstappen; he’s going to be there tomorrow,” Stella warned.
He also mentioned Mercedes and two-time world champion Fernando Alonso as potential threats.
“I think all the conditions are present for a very entertaining sprint weekend.”
Adding to the drama, a cyclone is expected to hit São Paulo, bringing torrential rain of 30 to 60 millimeters per hour and powerful wind gusts.
## Piastri finds his form again
Piastri’s third-place qualifying result comes at a perfect time. The Australian has been in a bit of a slump since his victory at the Dutch Grand Prix.
He’s been working to adjust his driving style after struggling with the car in recent races.
“I think in Austin and in Mexico, there were some technical reasons why Oscar’s adaptation of his natural style did not produce the lap times,” Stella explained.
The 24-year-old already showed signs of improvement in Mexico.
“Already in the race, Oscar was quite fast. He couldn’t prove it because of the traffic. I think here in Brazil, he’s back to his form.”
A small mistake in Turn 1 during his first qualifying attempt cost Piastri a chance at an even better position.
“I’m sure he wants to polish one tenth more. It’s a shame he had a little mistake in his first attempt,” said Stella.
Weather will likely play a crucial role this weekend.
“We are in Interlagos, so the it is always going to be a factor. In addition to the speed, we’ll have to be good with the operation, with the execution, with the strategic goals.”
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