In an exciting twist of events during the sprint qualifying, Lewis Hamilton of Mercedes initially seemed to have secured the top position.
Lando Norris is poised to begin from the front spot in the Sprint event at the 2024 China Grand Prix, marking a pinnacle in what has been a promising yet challenging Formula One career.
The Saturday Sprint comes before the finalization of the starting grid for the main race on Sunday at the Shanghai International Circuit.
This race is notably the first Chinese Grand Prix since 2019.
In an exciting twist of events during the sprint qualifying, Lewis Hamilton of Mercedes initially seemed to have secured the top position.
However, a decision by the race stewards to reinstate Norris’ previously discarded lap confirmed his position at the front.
An ecstatic Norris responded to his performance in difficult wet conditions with an enthusiastic, “Yeah, baby! Beautiful,” as he navigated his McLaren through the circuit.
This moment of triumph sharply contrasts with a challenging incident at the 2021 Russian Grand Prix.
Norris was on the brink of his first F1 victory, having led for several laps, but a crucial mistake just three laps before the finish allowed Hamilton to close a significant gap and snatch the win—his 100th career victory.
Reflecting on the incident, Norris shared with Sky Sports, “I don’t know where to start. I’m unhappy, devastated in a way.” He later expressed his frustration on social media, succinctly tweeting, “Heartbroken.”
Despite the setback, Norris stood by the strategic decision made during the race, acknowledging his role in choosing to stay out on the track rather than pit.
“It was the wrong one at the end of the day but I made the decision just as much as the team,” he admitted.
The starting grid for the China GP will feature Norris at the front, followed by Hamilton, Fernando Alonso from Aston Martin, Max Verstappen of Red Bull, and Carlos Sainz from Ferrari.
Carlos #Sainz addresses #Ferrari’s concerns
At 24 years old, Norris continues to pursue his elusive first win in F1.
Despite numerous close calls, including seven second-place finishes and 14 podiums, victory remains just beyond reach.
Currently, he is fifth in the 2024 Driver Standings with 37 points, and his team, McLaren, holds third place in the Constructor Standings, even surpassing Mercedes.