Norris admits fears over role in Hamilton vs Verstappen F1 title tussle

12/11/2021

Lando Norris has admitted that starting Sunday's Abu Dhabi Grand Prix just behind Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton is making him "a bit nervous".

Hamilton and Verstappen go head to head this weekend with the 2021 Formula One world championship on the line.

Red Bull's Dutch superstar claimed bragging rights on Saturday by romping to his 10th pole position of the season, with Mercedes superstar Hamilton joining him on the front row of the grid but, crucially, will only start in second spot.

And in another surprise finale in qualifying, British starlet Norris also produced a sensational last-ditch lap to put his McLaren third on the grid for the title-deciding showdown.

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Norris is understandably delighted to be starting high up the grid – but the 22-year-old ace is keen to avoid any drama involving the two title contenders.

He said "I made some improvements and some mistakes. I went for pole but it didn't quite work out. I was a little bit off.

"It was a nice lap, Q3 was a bit of a surprise! I'm a bit nervous because I just want to stay where I am and see it unfold. I don't want to get involved too much.

"I don't know whether to go for the move or not but if I have a chance I'll go for it."

Hamilton, meanwhile, was full of praise for his title rival. He said: "Max did a great lap today. We just couldn't compete with that time at the end there.

"It was looking really strong through practice. We couldn't answer to that lap, fantastic from him. I hope we can have a good race.

"The last lap was nice and clean, I just couldn't go any quicker. I couldn't beat the time he did today, he fully deserved the pole. We are still on the front row, different tyres. It is great I can see where he is."

Hamilton and Verstappen are level on points in the standings, with the Dutchman ahead 9-8 on race wins

Red Bull's star will now start as favourite to secure the first world title of his career – and he said: "It's an amazing feeling, we definitely improved the car in quali.

"I'm incredibly happy with this. It's what we wanted but it was not easy with Mercedes' form. I'm looking forward to tomorrow, that's the most important.

"I felt good on both tyres. should be easier on the softs. Will try our very best and we'll see where we end up. I was very relaxed going into qualifying. I know my team will give me the best possible car."

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