Lando Norris’ Monaco Grand Prix pole ‘a long time coming’ as McLaren driver says he ‘worked hard for today’

“Especially here in Monaco, it’s a beautiful place and probably the hardest track to do it up against the hometown hero as well. I’m very proud of the whole team – we’ve worked a lot this week, and over the last few months to get to a day like today so very pleased.”

He added: “When you get to Q3, the final lap in a sense is about who can risk a little bit more, who can commit a little bit more. It was a nice lap. It was a well put together lap and it feels good when you cross the line and know it’s all paid off. I’m very happy.”

HIGHLIGHTS: Watch the Qualifying action as Norris denies home hero Leclerc pole position in Monaco

McLaren opted for a different strategy compared with other teams, sending Norris and team mate Oscar Piastri out on their final sets of soft tyres early, allowing each of them to complete two flying laps via a cooldown lap in-between.

It paid dividends, with Norris dismissing that the strategy carried any risk post-session.

“No risk from our side. It’s what we believed was best before Quali and it’s what was proven to be best after,” he said.

“We stuck to what we believed in. Like I said, the team have done an amazing job, so thanks to everyone here and everyone back at the factory. These days don’t come easy. Proud to give something back to them.”