Lando Norris is set to start from the pole position in the Sprint event at the 2024 China Grand Prix, marking a high point in what has been a promising yet challenging Formula One career.
The Saturday Sprint precedes the finalization of the starting grid for Sunday’s main race at the Shanghai International Circuit.
This race is notably the first Chinese Grand Prix since 2019.
In a thrilling turn of events during sprint qualifying, Lewis Hamilton of Mercedes initially appeared to have snagged the top spot.
READ: Audi Targets Sainz and Hulkenberg for Early F1 Team Formation Ahead of 2026 Debut
However, a decision by the race stewards to reinstate Norris’ previously deleted lap confirmed his position at the front.
An elated Norris responded to his performance in challenging wet conditions with an enthusiastic, “Yeah, baby! Beautiful,” as he maneuvered his McLaren through the circuit.
This moment of triumph starkly contrasts with a challenging episode at the 2021 Russian Grand Prix.
Norris was on the verge of his first F1 victory, having led for several laps, but a critical error just three laps before the finish allowed Hamilton to close a significant gap and snatch the win—his 100th career victory.
Reflecting on the incident, Norris shared with Sky Sports, “I don’t know where to start. I’m unhappy, devastated in a way.” He later expressed his frustration on social media, succinctly tweeting, “Heartbroken.”
Despite the setback, Norris stood by the strategic decision made during the race, acknowledging his role in choosing to stay out on the track rather than pitting.
“It was the wrong one at the end of the day but I made the decision just as much as the team,” he admitted.
The starting grid for the China GP will feature Norris at the pole, followed by Hamilton, Fernando Alonso from Aston Martin, Max Verstappen of Red Bull, and Carlos Sainz from Ferrari.
READ: Employee to be Re-Interviewed as Part of Appeal Against Christian Horner
At 24 years old, Norris continues to seek his elusive first win in F1.
Despite numerous close calls, including seven second-place finishes and 14 podiums, victory remains just out of reach.
Currently, he is fifth in the 2024 Driver Standings with 37 points, and his team, McLaren, holds third place in the Constructor Standings, even outpacing Mercedes.