Lando Norris takes DHL Fastest Lap in China before his McLaren develops a problem

Two races, two fastest laps: After posting the DHL Fastest Lap in Australia, Lando Norris went on to emphasize his title aspirations on the Shanghai International Circuit in China, at the same time securing yet another fastest race lap.

The McLaren team dominated the race, with Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris as front-runners throughout. While pole-sitter Piastri controlled the pace for long stretches, last year’s DHL Fastest Lap Award winner was clearly unwilling to settle for the runner-up spot, gradually increasing the pressure on his team-mate as the race progressed.

On lap 53, Norris set the DHL Fastest Lap in a time of 1:35.454 minutes, thereby reducing the gap to Piastri. His subsequent failure to catch up with Piastri in the final stage of the race was due to his MCL39 developing a sudden brake problem. For the McLaren driver, the last few kilometers were all about getting the car safely to the finish line.

“I would have liked to try and put Oscar under a bit of pressure, but not today,” said Norris. Satisfied with second place, he was even more pleased to see his team reach an important milestone: “This 50th one-two finish for McLaren is a remarkable achievement, and I’m very happy to be a part of it.”