McLaren’s qualifying performance in Bahrain created some mixed feelings in the two sides of the garage. On one side, there was Oscar Piastri’s solid performance – even if his demeanor didn’t quite show it – and on the other, a frustrated Lando Norris, who once again appeared to buckle under pressure.

The Brit clearly had the potential to fight for the front row and challenge his teammate for pole, but a mistake in Turn 1 relegated him to sixth on the grid. From that position, he can still fight his way back up, especially given McLaren’s race pace, which thrives in conditions with overheating and tire degradation – both expected in today’s race. But Piastri may already be long gone, and Norris knows it.

Implicitly admitting that the McLaren is currently the strongest car – something Norris is often reluctant to acknowledge when he’s ahead – the #4 driver claimed Piastri could lap the entire field in today’s Bahrain GP. Most likely an exaggeration, but it illustrates just how dominant the MCL39 has looked to the paddock in recent weeks.

“The podium is probably the best I can aim for. I don’t think I can win the race. I think Oscar will lap everyone – I’ll be trying to get second,” said Norris after qualifying in Sakhir.

“But this is a track where you can overtake and play with strategy, unlike Suzuka. With an undercut, you can gain 3-4 seconds. So, let’s see what we can do.”

Photo: Cpurtesy of McLaren F1 Team