In an unexpected turn of events, Lando Norris and his McLaren faced a last-minute change ahead of the Japanese Grand Prix. Alongside five other drivers, Norris experienced a significant adjustment to his car, taking place during Parc Ferme just before the race. Positioned to start in P2, right behind Max Verstappen, Norris is set to make a prominent appearance on the Suzuka circuit.
The modifications made to Norris’ car involved the replacement of the RHS chassis saver plate, a key component for optimal performance. While this change surprised fans and experts alike, McLaren remains hopeful. As Norris stands ahead of his teammate Oscar Piastri, who coincidentally celebrates his birthday today, the team is geared to challenge Verstappen’s pace in hopes of maintaining their lead in the constructors’ championship.
According to the FIA technical report released shortly before the race, McLaren was among several teams that implemented last-minute updates. Mercedes adjusted Kimi Antonelli‘s car, Aston Martin made changes for Lance Stroll, while Haas and Sauber both modified their machines for their respective drivers. This flurry of activity highlights the intense competition and strategic maneuvering characteristic of Formula 1 racing.
As the Japanese Grand Prix unfolds, Verstappen continues his pursuit of the championship, while Norris and McLaren aim to leverage their refined setup for maximum advantage. The tension on the grid is palpable, with McLaren starting right behind the Dutchman, who showed remarkable resilience by overcoming challenges with his RB21 in Saturday’s qualifying session. The outcome of this race could significantly influence the championship standings, making it a pivotal moment in the F1 season.
