Lando Norris has identified an energy deployment issue as the key factor behind his compromised performance in qualifying for the 2026 Miami Grand Prix. The McLaren driver will start from fourth on the grid despite entering the session as a strong pole contender.
After securing sprint pole and victory, Norris was expected to challenge for the top spot, but a difficult Q3 left him behind Kimi Antonelli, Max Verstappen, and Charles Leclerc, while team-mate Oscar Piastri qualified seventh.
"I started my final lap with less deployment, so I was compromised from the start."
From a technical perspective, deployment issues relate to how electrical energy from the power unit is delivered, which is critical for acceleration and top-end speed. Any inconsistency in energy release can result in significant lap time losses, particularly during corner exits.
Norris also pointed to external factors such as higher temperatures, changing wind conditions, and increased rubber on the track surface. These variables altered grip levels and optimal racing lines compared to earlier sessions.
"There were a lot of small factors — hotter conditions, different wind, and a more rubbered-in track."
He emphasised that the performance gap to rivals was relatively small, estimated at around two-tenths to Mercedes, suggesting that execution and adaptation played a larger role than any fundamental car deficit.
Norris acknowledged that rival teams improved compared to sprint qualifying, while McLaren faced greater challenges in adapting to the evolving conditions.
Starting from the second row and with potential weather changes ahead, Norris remains in contention. The focus now shifts to ensuring stable energy deployment and maximising performance under variable race conditions in Miami.
Baca Juga
Isack Hadjar didiskualifikasi dari kualifikasi F1 Miami 2026 akibat pelanggaran lantai mobil RB22 yang tidak sesuai regulasi FIA.
Oscar Piastri nilai F1 Miami 2026 sebagai tantangan tak terduga akibat hujan, soroti performa power unit McLaren.
Isack Hadjar start dari pit lane di F1 Miami 2026 setelah perubahan power unit oleh Red Bull dan pelanggaran regulasi FIA.
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