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Lando Norris admitted it was practically impossible to hook up a clean lap during free practice in Austin ahead of this weekend's Formula 1 United States Grand Prix.
The Briton endured a difficult Friday at the Texas circuit, setting only the seventh-fastest time in the second practice session. During his soft-tyre qualifying simulation, Norris suffered snap oversteer through Turn 15 and was forced to abandon his flying lap, despite showing strong pace in the opening sector.
Following a frustrating day on track, Norris admitted he hopes McLaren can find the necessary adjustments ahead of the weekend's crucial sessions.
"It was extremely tricky, just impossible to put a whole lap together. The signs of good pace are there, but heading into qualifying and being able to deliver it consistently is just too tough. I'm sure it's the same for everyone. We just need to make some small tweaks to the car," Norris commented.
Despite struggling with the car's balance, the McLaren driver remains reasonably confident after seeing promising glimpses of pace throughout the lap.
"There's nothing drastic or dramatic. The car's driveability is just a bit harder to unlock right now. A few small tweaks in the right direction could make a huge difference. The speed is there, so we still have plenty of reasons to stay optimistic," the driver concluded.
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