The Saudi Arabian Grand Prix proved to be an exciting race, as promised. Max Verstappen and Charles Leclerc’s battle for the victory was at the heart of it as the Dutchman snatched P1 after an impressive race. Red Bull bounced back after the poor start to the season in Bahrain. Meanwhile, McLaren’s struggles continued, but Lando Norris finished P7 to get them off the mark in 2022.

Verstappen will look to carry the momentum forward as Australia beckons in two weeks’ time. On the other side, Norris will hope the MCL 36 will improve its pace after a disappointing start to the season. However, the young British driver joked about his result in Jeddah with Verstappen after the race in the F1 Nation podcast.

What did Lando Norris say?

Formula 1 fans know that Lando Norris and Max Verstappen are good friends off the grid. After the race, Verstappen joined the McLaren driver in the F1 Nation podcast. The question popped up whether the Dutchman will have celebrations after his victory in Jeddah. And that’s when Norris chipped in with a reply. He jokingly said, “I’m celebrating a P7 more than Max has got to celebrate P1 in a minute.”

It surprised Verstappen, as he joined the Briton and cheekily replied, “You finished P7? That’s actually a good result.” Norris hilariously responded that it felt like a win to him after an impressive finish to the race as McLaren’s tough start to the season continued. However, the result will leave them pleased, as they have shown signs of development from Bahrain.

Norris is optimistic ahead of the Australian GP

McLaren’s expectations took a dive in Bahrain after a solid start to pre-season in Barcelona. The car struggled with pace amid issues in the slow-speed corners and across the straights. However, the McLaren driver was able to get the best out of the car as he finished P7.

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The result satisfied Lando, as he feels the team from Woking made the most out of the situation. He said, “I think a lot of positives. P7–good points, a little bit better than we were expecting, but I guess a little bit down to retirements from some other cars, but we made the most of it.” Norris explained.

He also believes that the car is showing potential, and the team is confident of achieving its targets with 21 races to go. The 22-year-old added, “Good to see there is some potential in the car and some positives, which means we can look forward to some good results. It’s just for the motivation for everyone.”

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McLaren has started the season poorly. They expected to be on the podium and fighting for the Championship, but will have to settle for a mid-table finish. However, they will hope their best is yet to come with 21 races remaining.