Norris looks both ways in Japan: 'Competition in front and behind us'

Lando Norris managed to qualify his car on P3. In the same place as last year, in other words. One small difference: instead of teammate Piastri, Sergio Perez is in front of Norris' car. Nevertheless, the Briton is positive going into the race.

"Sergio is doing a good job. So that's one much harder car to keep up with. But we proved last year when we were further away from them that we could keep in touch and not be miles behind. So that'll be our target for tomorrow," said Lando Norris.

The McLaren driver likes to dream about a great race, but remains realistic: "But I think realistically, we're still too far away to challenge them. They're too quick for us. Yes, we are quicker in quality, but in the race, normally they always pull away a bit more. So I think we'll be realistic. I'm always realistic when I say it. So I think our... Our competition has got the guys behind, and at the same time, I'll do my best to push forward."

McLaren hope for repeat

Last year's race ended great for McLaren's drivers. After qualifying in places two and three, they finished in those position in the race too. Only that the two swapped places. Whether the two men from McLaren can cheer again on Sunday remains to be seen, at least in the standings they are in good shape with third place.