Lando Norris rages on the McLaren team radio over a pitstop call that nearly cost him the P2 at the 2023 British GP

Lando Norris took his first podium finish at the 2023 British Grand Prix.


Lando Norris rages on the McLaren team radio over a pitstop call that nearly cost him the P2 at the 2023 British GP

Lando Norris (Image credit: Sky Sports)

In a brilliant qualifying session by McLaren, Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri found themselves starting the British GP in P2 and P3—Max Verstappen displaying his formidable form, qualified in the pole ahead of the papaya drivers. The Woking team’s performance was undeniably remarkable, yet Lando Norris voiced his disappointment over the radio, believing that his team had placed him on an incorrect strategy.

After Kevin Magnussen’s Haas caught fire during the race, a full safety car was called. This put both the McLarens in a good position when it comes to getting a cheap pitstop. However, McLaren decided to pit their drivers on hard tires, despite only a handful of laps left in the race. Oscar Piastri did not seem overly concerned; teammate Lando Norris was not the one to keep silent.

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On the radio, Norris blatantly voiced his concern. He asked the engineer what tire the Mercedes had on. The engineer replied that Hamilton behind him had fitted a used soft tire, and Verstappen ahead of him had also used a soft tire. Upon hearing this, Norris sarcastically expressed his appreciation.

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“What tyre does the Mercedes have on?” Norris asked to which his race engineer replied. “Hamilton behind you has fitted a used soft, used soft. Same for Verstappen ahead of you.” “Lovely. Yeah. Wonderful man,” the Brit replied sarcastically.

Read more: WATCH: Hollywood actress Florence Pugh confesses love for $285 million worth Lewis Hamilton at the British GP

Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri’s British GP showcased McLaren’s unwavering dedication

Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris after the qualifying session at the 2023 British Grand Prix (Image credit: PlanetF1)

McLaren’s pursuit of reliving the success of the 2000s is not solely reliant on its partially chrome livery. In addition to its eye-catching appearance, the team’s performance on the track this weekend effectively erases years of unfavorable memories.

Lando Norris secured an impressive second place in qualifying, falling just 0.241 seconds short of pole position. Oscar Piastri followed closely behind in third place, a mere 0.131 seconds adrift. It’s important to note that earlier in the year, McLaren had the slowest car at the opening race.

However, the team has embarked on a remarkable journey, and their exceptional qualifying performance results from two significant factors. The first notable aspect is the highly anticipated upgrade package, discussed throughout the paddock in the past week.

A podium finish for Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri’s best-ever Formula One finish is just a testament to McLaren’s commitment to improving the MCL60. The British GP podium was completed with Lewis Hamilton in P3 and Max Verstappen’s 7th win of the season.

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