McLaren duo Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris narrowly missed out on pole at Silverstone after being edged out by Max Verstappen. The reigning world champion will start the British Grand Prix on the front row, alongside the Australian in P2 and the hometown hero in third.

Despite the result, the McLaren pair – who were separated by just .015s – were still relatively upbeat in the media pen after qualifying.

“I’m not that surprised that Max is quick here,” Piastri told reporters. “The biggest surprise for me is how each car is generating their lap time: you look at the speed traces and they all look completely different, but they end up at basically the same point at the end of the lap.” 

In an interview with Sky Sports, the Australian noted that Verstappen was on the pace across all sessions.

“Max has looked quick all day, I just didn’t have enough in the end really,” Piastri explained after qualifying for the British Grand Prix. 

“The last lap of qualifying was a little bit scrappy, which is a shame, but the first one was very good. There’s always the would’ve, could’ve, should’ve, but I honestly think I did a good job.

“Max and Red Bull have done a good job too, so I’ll move on and try to see how we’ll win tomorrow.” 

When Norris was asked if he was “gutted” to miss out on pole, he replied, “I am” and added: “I just think we weren’t quick enough as a team … but P3 is nothing to be disappointed about. It is what it is and we’ll make the race more exciting tomorrow.”

As for where the race could be won and lost, Norris suggested that Red Bull’s setup, and possible rainy conditions, may be a factor. 

“Weather can play a part, and there’s still going to be rain tomorrow. Max also has lower downforce, so there’s pros and cons of that: they’re incredibly quick in the straights, which means passing him will be pretty damn tough,” he explained.

“But Red Bull pay the price of being a little bit slower in some high-speed corners, so it’s difficult to know… people are quick and slow in different places, including the Ferrari.”