Lando Norris was overjoyed on Saturday after taking pole position for the first time since the Australian Grand Prix. The Brit narrowly edged out Charles Leclerc (second) and Oscar Piastri (third) in a thrilling qualifying session.
“This means an enormous amount to me,” Norris said after qualifying. “Not only because it’s been so long, but also because of the difficult months I’ve had. And also here in Monaco – that makes it extra special.”
Norris started the season excellently with a pole and a win in Australia, but then entered a difficult period. The Brit disappointed especially in qualifying sessions and usually finished behind teammate Oscar Piastri, who also took over the World Championship lead.
According to the McLaren driver, several reasons contributed to things finally falling into place on Saturday afternoon. “This is Monaco, you need a different driving style than normal. You have to dare to take risks,” Norris continued.
“I have worked hard on myself lately. Everything had to come together in Q3, and it worked for the first time since Australia. I’m not driving harder, but smarter. This pole really means a lot. So much has happened in the past months.”
‘Never Thought I Couldn’t Do It Anymore’
Norris, who, among other things, quit social media, states that he never doubted his own qualities. “Of course I was frustrated and not happy – that’s normal when you don’t win races or take poles. But I never thought I couldn’t do it anymore. Today just makes me very happy.”
Also his decision to quit social media contributed to his pole lap, according to Norris. “That has made me calmer. I still have my accounts and try to keep in touch with friends from time to time. But I am very happy without social media. It was a waste of my life. I now focus on the fun things. It has certainly helped me to stop.”
Max Verstappen finished fifth in qualifying in Monte Carlo. The race in the principality starts on Sunday at 3:00 PM.