Norris frustrated after Singapore qualifying and fires warning at Russell

Norris admitted how he remains far from pleased with his result after seeing teammate and championship leader Oscar Piastri qualify in third place behind pole-sitter George Russell and Max Verstappen.

Norris said:“I'm fifth. I'm behind the people I [don’t] need to be behind. We've got nothing to worry about. I've just got to try and get my head down. It's not an easy track to overtake on. That's why today's a bit frustrating, of course.”

The British driver, in a light-hearted moment, offered a pointed remark at Russell, suggesting the Mercedes driver may have more to worry about as he has Verstappen and Piastri behind him.

He added: "I'm not the happiest about today from my own performance. I have got no one to worry about, you know. If anyone's got anything to worry about, it's George, because he's [Piastri] been very quick today, it's been like that the whole weekend, and obviously tomorrow as well.”

Norris stormed to pole and eventual victory during the 2024 Singapore Grand Prix. However, the McLaren driver struggled to replicate such performance and was even beaten by Mercedes' rookie Kimi Antonelli, who was fourth-quickest.

Norris will be hoping for a stronger performance in the race as Verstappen looks to close in on second place in the championship before he attempts to hunt down Piastri for a fifth world title.

Norris also admitted several other teams have made significant progress while McLaren's advantage has been reeled in over the last few races. The McLaren driver pointed at the Mercedes and Red Bull teams as the ones who have made most progress.

He said: "Others have improved. Mercedes have done a good job. Red Bull have been good the last two weekends. Nothing is a surprise.”

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