Norris highlights Mercedes 'saviour' as Verstappen focus dismissed

Lando Norris feels Mercedes has a "saviour" going into the British Grand Prix which ensures he cannot focus solely on the threat he will face from Max Verstappen.

An error from Norris on his final lap in qualifying means he will start third on the grid behind an all-Mercedes front row at Silverstone, the team achieving the feat for the first time in almost two years.

The British 1-2-3 is a first for the British GP, as well as ending a 56-year wait since Jim Clark, Graham Hill and Jackie Stewart managed the achievement in the 1968 South African Grand Prix. 

Naturally, there is now a significant chance of a British winner, which could come courtesy of Mercedes in the eyes of Norris, who is wary of areas which could benefit the Silver Arrows in the race, although he remains confident of McLaren's chances.

"I think even if you look at last year, Mercedes was probably one of the quickest in the race, if not potentially the quickest," Norris told select media including RacingNews365. 

"So I expect them to be very quick, especially as they can look after their front tyres very well. They have a very good front end, and I think that's going to be a good saviour for them tomorrow. 

"Again, the conditions are going to be tricky, but we're there. We've been very quick in the races over the last two months. It's probably been one of our strengths. 

"It's been race pace over quali pace. But this is a very different type of circuit. It's a very different layout. But it's still a strength. And hopefully it comes back towards us a little bit tomorrow."

Wider focus

Heading into the weekend, Norris and Verstappen's Austrian Grand Prix clash remained the biggest story. 

Many have speculated about what could happen if they duel on Sunday, and if a similar incident could occur. 

With the reigning world champion starting in fourth, Norris expects Verstappen to be in the fight for victory; however, he has stressed that Mercedes also need to be taken into consideration.

"I'm sure Max is going to be racing us, but I've still got two other guys I've got to worry about, so I don't care just about Red Bull," insisted Norris. 

"I think our strategy has been very good over the last two months, so I'm happy. The team are doing a good job and therefore I’m confident we can execute a good race. We need good pace. 

"We need to be able to race well. I need to pass two guys if that's going to be on the cards. So, yeah, confident from what we know and what we've seen over the last few races that we can go forwards."