Norris delivers firm verdict on Verstappen-Piastri’s fightback chances

Max Verstappen and Oscar Piastri will be looking to fight back in Sunday’s Mexican Grand Prix, chasing the top three after a less-than-ideal qualifying session.

Asked whether both could fight their way back and pose a threat in the race, polesitter Lando Norris replied: “You’re talking about two of the best drivers on the grid, so I don’t think you can ever put it past them to come back through.

“I know from my side, our race pace has always been very strong this season. I’m still expecting Oscar to come back through and to race well — he normally does. That is my expectation.”

And about Verstappen: “Same with Max — when has he ever not been on the attack and come forward? Hopefully, I can just stay ahead on lap 1 and then these guys can hold everyone else up for me.”

Oscar Piastri in Mexican GP - Photo: Race Pictures

Leclerc, meanwhile, was more cautious than Norris, stressing that a comeback will be difficult but still possible — especially for Piastri if he can find some rhythm on race pace: “It’s probably going to be tough. I’d rather be in my position than theirs, but they’ve got the pace.

“Especially if Oscar finds the pace that I had on the high fuel, I think he’ll probably have the pace to come back. But it’s obviously a lot more difficult.”

Finally, Hamilton added: “It’s tough with the altitude, with the overheating of the car, with the overheating of the brakes. I don’t know how it is for everybody, but I’m pretty sure most people have that experience here with the lack of cooling. So it won’t necessarily be easy, but you’ve got some great drivers behind us — so we’ll see.”

Read also

Norris satisfied with Mexico pole, Hamilton savours 'best grid slot'

F1 Full Results | Norris gets mega pole, what a hard blow for Piastri!

Piastri gives reasons for disastrous qualifying result in Mexico

The championship leader’s tough run of form continued in Mexico, as he could manage only eighth on the grid for a race that will see his teammate start from pole and Max Verstappen from fifth.

The Australian admitted he’s been unable to find pace all weekend, losing ground to his teammate in pretty much every area.

Here’s what he had to say after qualifying.

Read also

Norris puts in statement lap for pole position, Piastri only eighth

Piastri gives reasons for disastrous qualifying result in Mexico

Norris satisfied with Mexico pole, Hamilton savours 'best grid slot'

GPblog's latest F1 Paddock Update

Want to stay up-to-date with what happens in the F1 paddock? Then GPblog's F1 Paddock Update video is the perfect way to do it. Subscribe to GPblog's YouTube channel and turn on notifications to never miss the latest episodes.