Norris Sets Fastest Time In Canadian GP Final Practice

James

2 min read

Post on Jun 15, 2025

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Norris Sets Fastest Time in Canadian GP Final Practice: McLaren Showing Strong Pace

Lewis Hamilton's hopes of a strong showing at the Canadian Grand Prix received a blow today as Lando Norris clocked the fastest time in final practice, showcasing McLaren's impressive pace ahead of qualifying. The Canadian Grand Prix, always a fan favourite, is shaping up to be a thrilling weekend, with several teams demonstrating unexpected speed.

Norris, driving the MCL60, edged out championship leader Max Verstappen by a mere 0.125 seconds, setting the tone for what promises to be a fiercely competitive qualifying session. This performance underlines McLaren's significant step forward in recent races, a stark contrast to their struggles earlier in the season. The team's upgrades seem to be paying off, putting them firmly in contention for a podium finish.

McLaren's Unexpected Pace

The unexpected speed of the McLaren MCL60 has surprised many pundits. Throughout the weekend, the team has consistently shown strong race pace, suggesting that they've cracked the code to unlock the car's full potential. This improved performance is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the entire McLaren team, from the engineers to the mechanics. The upgrades introduced appear to be particularly effective on the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve's unique track layout, characterized by its combination of high-speed straights and challenging chicanes.

Verstappen Remains a Contender

Despite Norris' impressive lap time, reigning World Champion Max Verstappen and Red Bull remain strong contenders. Verstappen, while not securing the fastest time, still demonstrated the raw speed expected of the championship leader. His consistent performance throughout practice suggests he remains a favorite for pole position and victory. However, the tight margins between the top drivers highlight the competitive nature of this year's championship.

Other Notable Performances

Beyond Norris and Verstappen, other drivers also made their presence felt during the final practice session. Sergio Perez, Verstappen's teammate, showed solid pace, placing third overall. This suggests that Red Bull Racing still holds a strong advantage, but the fight for the remaining podium spots is far from decided. Ferrari's Charles Leclerc also demonstrated a promising pace, placing within the top five.

What to Expect in Qualifying

The close competition in final practice sets the stage for a thrilling qualifying session. The fight for pole position is expected to be incredibly tight, with the slightest margin potentially making the difference. The unpredictable nature of the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve adds another layer of excitement, with the potential for unexpected overtakes and strategic errors. McLaren’s resurgence, however, significantly increases the intrigue for qualifying and the race itself. Will Norris continue his strong performance and secure a coveted front-row start? We'll find out soon!

Stay tuned for updates on qualifying and the Canadian Grand Prix race itself! [Link to live timing website] Follow us on social media for more insights and analysis. [Links to social media pages]