Norris highlights Mercedes threat despite upgrade boost

Lando Norris has highlighted the threat Mercedes pose this weekend at the Dutch Grand Prix, despite McLaren having introduced several upgrades. 

For the first race following the summer break, McLaren has opted to introduce a significant upgrades package.

As well as modifications to the MCL38's floor, McLaren has changed its front and rear suspension, in a bid to improve the performance of the car. 

Norris topped the timesheets in an unrepresentative first practice due to mixed weather, but was then fourth quickest in a completely dry second practice. 

The Briton had good pace across the day in all conditions on the first day of the second half of the season, and was pleased with his running.

"Pretty good, nice to be back in the car. I think Zandvoort is a tough one to come back to straightaway," said Norris. 

"Just because it's quick and up and down and it's twisty, it's a bit of everything. First day back in the car, but a bit of progress needs to be made in the car before tomorrow."

Mercedes pace concern

Since McLaren introduced its last significant upgrades package back in Miami – Norris went onto secure a maiden win – it is the Woking-based team who have often boasted the best pace. 

Despite the upgrades, Norris does not believe that is the case in Zandvoort. The 24-year-old has highlighted Mercedes' Friday pace, as George Russell topped second practice. 

However, the McLaren driver believes there is not an outright strongest team as things stand. 

"Probably not, Mercedes are quicker... it's close," noted Norris. "I don't think there is a quickest it just depends on different factors. 

"But we've been in good form since Miami but we've not really brought any updates since Miami. This weekend is our first time trying to make a bit more progress with the car. 

"Optimistic but I have no idea if it's working or not or how it's performing at the minute, but today was a reasonable day and we're there or thereabouts. A little bit more to find overnight hopefully to challenge the Mercedes."