‘I feel like I’ve never driven an F1 car’ – Norris left searching for answers after disappointing P6 result in Bahrain Qualifying

Lando Norris cut a downbeat figure after Qualifying for the Bahrain Grand Prix, with the McLaren driver having to settle for sixth on the grid while team mate Oscar Piastri charged to pole position.

Norris and Piastri were closely matched in the Q1 and Q2 phases and on their initial Q3 runs, but the two drivers’ final laps of the session differed significantly – allowing several rival cars to slot between them.

Indeed, Piastri’s time of 1m 29.841s was some four-tenths quicker than Norris’, meaning the Briton is not only set to start Sunday’s race behind his team mate, but both Mercedes cars, Charles Leclerc’s Ferrari and Alpine racer Pierre Gasly.

BAHRAIN, BAHRAIN - APRIL 12: Lando Norris of Great Britain driving the (4) McLaren MCL39 Mercedes — Norris was unable to match team mate Piastri on their final Qualifying runs

Asked to explain what happened as the session drew to a close, Norris said: “I was just slow. I’ve been slow this whole weekend, to be honest. Nothing too surprising, honestly. I’ve just been off it.

“I feel like I’ve just never driven an F1 car before. I’m struggling a lot, I don’t know why. I need to try and find some answers.”

AS IT HAPPENED: Follow the action from Qualifying for the Bahrain GP as Piastri takes pole

He added: “The car’s amazing. I have nothing to complain about. The car, the team are doing an amazing job, Oscar’s on pole by a good chunk.

“I’m thankful for the team, they’re doing an amazing job, just I’m letting them down.”

Qualifying Highlights: 2025 Bahrain Grand Prix

Given the number of cars separating the two McLaren drivers, Norris pondered what would represent a realistic target – and positive outcome – in the Grand Prix.

“It’s to try and win the race, but I don’t think I’ll win tomorrow,” he said. “I think to try and aim for a podium will be the best chance.

“I think Oscar will lap everyone. I’ll try and get to second, I guess.”

Norris will start the race just one point clear of Max Verstappen in the Drivers’ Championship – the Red Bull driver due to line up one spot behind him in seventh position.