The McLaren duo had also opted against using the medium compound of Pirelli tyre in the final stages, with Russell and Max Verstappen opting to use the C5 option instead of the soft C6 to lock out the front row.
“I just pushed a bit hard and too many mistakes,” said Norris post-session as he reflected on his lower than hoped for grid slot.
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When asked what might have been possible, he replied: “Good enough for a top three, probably not good enough for pole.
“Hard to know how much was maybe the medium tyre performing that little bit better, especially when the grip comes up. Maybe the medium is a touch better but it was a gamble.