Lando Norris has reduced Oscar Piastri’s lead in the F1 drivers’ title to 13 points following a podium finish in Imola.
Lando Norris has handed McLaren a warning following defeat to Max Verstappen in the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, that the British outfit “could not keep up”.
The British driver started in fourth and remained there in the opening stages, before moving into second after passing George Russell and Oscar Piastri pitted.
He found himself back behind his team-mate in the closing stages after pitting under a late safety car, but quickly moved ahead of the Australian again due to a tyre advantage.
Second was the best Norris could achieve, with Verstappen and Red Bull having been quicker than the Woking-based outfit.
“It was a long race from that perspective. Not easy to overtake, but we did what we could,” said Norris. “I think Max drove a good race.
“They were quick today, and probably a bit quicker [than us], we could not keep up. We had a good little battle at the end between Oscar and myself, which is always tense, but always good fun, but a good race.
“From us as a team, second and third is great. Of course, we would love to be out there fighting against Max, but they were too good for us.”
Norris’ overtake on Russell was particularly impressive after sweeping around the outside of the fast Turn 5.
It was a move the Briton knew had to be made, but one he had faith in due to the quality of Russell.
“It’s with George, and I could tell he was struggling with the tyres a lot,” added Norris. “So, it’s just a situation you’ve got to take advantage of.
“It’s always risky. You never want to take too much risk, but we’re also racing. He’s a fair race, he’s a good racer, so some good moves today.”
