Norris: The car’s handling leaves a lot to be desired

Both McLaren drivers were in the top ten at the end of Friday practice in Suzuka, but Lando Norris complains about the car’s behavior and his young teammate stressed that the pace must increase on the track, where he is for the first time. gradual.

Lando Norris 3rd): “I can’t say I’m completely happy with how the training went, even though we have a pace, which is not bad. Moreover, this is one of those Fridays where we managed to get closest to Red Bull. But at the same time the car was driven all over the highway and lacked stability.

But I think most teams have experienced similar problems, simply because the grip on the track is still at a very low level. I don’t know, maybe we have special problems with this, but the handling of the car leaves a lot to be desired.

Our job is to solve this, to achieve optimal balance, and I think our business will improve tomorrow. I repeat: the pace is at a good level, but the car is simply difficult to drive.

I don’t think we will have a chance to fight for pole in qualifying – Red Bull is in his repertoire at this track, but we won’t lose that much to them. Although we usually manage to improve in qualifying if we drive with minimal fuel load and increase engine power, we are still far from pole position.

We will try to compete with Mercedes, although they are not too fast today, unlike Aston Martin and Ferrari, with whom we will also measure our strength. I think we have an interesting fight waiting for us tomorrow!”

Oscar Piastri (8th): “The first day at the track was fun. First of all, I really like the atmosphere at the Japanese track, and the track itself is just fantastic! I enjoy riding, although there are still some things to improve, but I think it was a good day.

So far we haven’t shown everything we are capable of in terms of speed, but if you overdo it, this track will punish you – in the first practice I already had a dangerous moment in Turn 8. But I think it’s pace should be increased gradually, because this is the first time I ride this route, and here it is not so easy to set guidelines for yourself. But tomorrow I will attack with all my might!”