Formula 1 | McLaren F1 has its back to the wall this weekend after Interlagos flop

McLaren is drinking the cup from Russia, and now Ferrari has completely turned the tide for 3rd place in the constructors’ standings, now with a 31.5 point lead.

To bring hope to life, Lando Norris must get back to accumulating big points this weekend in Qatar. The McLaren driver, who crashed in the first lap with Carlos Sainz in the last Grand Prix, is hoping for a better start to confirm Brazil’s promising pace.

“After a tough race in Brazil last week, I hope we can bounce back as we travel to Qatar for the first time in Formula 1 this weekend. We have one last race left of this demanding treble ahead of Saudi Arabia and Abu Dhabi, so we will do everything to try to finish on a high note. « 

“I was able to have a driving experience with the Losail international circuit on the simulator to get an idea of ​​what awaits us this weekend. It’s a pretty fast and fun circuit with a few big braking areas which should make the race physical. Being able to compete in new places is always a challenge which is exciting for us as riders as we have to adapt to something new and find speed as fast as possible. « 

Daniel Ricciardo had a good race pace last Sunday, but an engine failure forced him to retire. Again on paper, he has something to perform very well in Qatar.

“We had the bad luck in Brazil not to come away with points on my side. It’s a shame, but there are still a lot of positive points to be learned from this weekend and to be used to optimize the races that remain this season. I can’t wait to be in Qatar because it’s a new circuit and a different challenge for everyone. The aim is to familiarize yourself with the circuit from the start and find a good rhythm. Running in the spotlight also brings a little more excitement. There are three races left, we will continue to fight. « 

McLaren F1 manager Andreas Seidl knows there is no time to waste as the season nears its end. It is a question of stopping wasting good potential as in Mexico or Interlagos.

“After two difficult weeks, we are going to Qatar to try to get a positive result for the team and to score the points that are on the table with the package we have. « 

“This week marks the first ever Qatari Grand Prix in Formula 1 history at the Losail International Circuit. Once again, it’s exciting to be racing in a new country and on a new venue and being able to introduce the sport to fans around the world in a different territory. « 

“We’re going back to the traditional race weekend format. The additional free practice session will allow the teams to optimize the settings, especially in the absence of historical data. The circuit offers a mix of medium and high speed corners with a DRS zone on the long main straight which will hopefully provide some overtaking possibilities when entering the first corner. « 

“The team, both on the track and in the factory, as well as our colleagues at Mercedes HPP, have demonstrated hard work, dedication and team spirit at the highest level during this transcontinental triple-header. Let’s continue to push together. «