Norris Sidelined by McLaren for Austria Practice as Russell Faces Brutal Claim After Win
The Formula 1 paddock is buzzing with drama ahead of the Austrian Grand Prix, as McLaren has sidelined Lando Norris for Friday’s FP1 session, handing the wheel to rising star Alex Dunn, while George Russell’s recent Canadian GP triumph is met with a stinging dismissal from Oscar Piastri. With Red Bull’s Arvid Lindblad making waves in his first proper F1 test and Ferrari confirming Dino Beganovic’s return, the sport is rife with anticipation and tension. As Norris seeks redemption and Russell’s championship credentials are questioned, this weekend promises a thrilling showdown.
Norris, reeling from a disastrous Canadian GP where he crashed into teammate Piastri, retiring and falling 22 points behind in the standings, will sit out FP1 in Austria. McLaren’s decision to promote F2 leader Dunn, part of their junior program since 2024, reflects a strategic move to nurture talent while giving Norris a breather. Dunn, who has honed his skills on the MCL60 simulator and past car tests, expressed excitement: “I’m really looking forward to getting laps in the MCL39 and supporting the team.” This shake-up comes as Norris desperately needs a strong result at the Red Bull Ring, where McLaren’s pace could reclaim momentum lost in Montreal.
Meanwhile, Russell’s maiden 2025 win in Canada—Mercedes’ first of the season—has sparked debate, with Piastri downplaying his rival’s title threat. Sitting fourth in the standings, 62 points adrift of Piastri, Russell’s victory alongside Andrea Kimi Antonelli’s third place showcased Mercedes’ potential. Yet, Piastri’s blunt assessment to RacingNews365—“I don’t think so. George is quite a long way behind”—suggests he views the win as a fluke, echoing Mercedes’ inconsistent 2024 form. Fans on social platforms are divided, with some defending Russell’s skill—“He’s a contender, give him time!”—while others back Piastri’s logic given McLaren’s superior consistency.
The driver market also heats up with Red Bull’s 17-year-old prodigy Arvid Lindblad, who earned a special super license dispensation, completing his first official F1 test with the 2023 AT04. Despite two minor spins, the test at Imola signals his readiness for an FP1 debut later this year, drawing comparisons to past Red Bull juniors like Yuki Tsunoda, who struggled alongside Max Verstappen. Ferrari’s Dino Beganovic will also return for FP1 in Austria, marking his second outing in the SF25, fulfilling half of their rookie session quota. These moves highlight teams’ focus on youth amid a fiercely competitive season.
As Austria looms, Norris’ benching could either reset his focus or deepen his slump, while Russell aims to silence critics with another strong showing. With McLaren leading the constructors’ race and Mercedes showing flashes of brilliance, the Red Bull Ring could redefine the championship battle. Will Norris rebound, or will Russell prove his detractors wrong? The answers lie in the high-octane action ahead, keeping F1 fans glued to this evolving saga.
