Doha, Nov 27 (NationPress) McLaren racer Lando Norris has acknowledged that his strategy for the Drivers' Championship remains unchanged despite his disqualification at the Las Vegas Grand Prix.

Currently, Norris is trailing his teammate Oscar Piastri and Red Bull driver Max Verstappen by 24 points, with Verstappen having secured pole position in Las Vegas.

When questioned about his feelings regarding the disqualification, Norris stated: “No. It doesn’t help. I think from what I had to do in the race, there was already some expectation that it might happen so it wasn’t a shock or a surprise.

“We knew we were facing more challenges than we anticipated during the race. Perhaps it would have been more painful if we had won, but since we didn’t, there’s no reason to dwell on it. There’s no point in being overly upset about it.

“Naturally, everyone in the team felt somewhat disappointed because of the significant effort invested. It was frustrating, but honestly, I felt okay. I’m just eager to compete again this weekend. Nothing changes – I aim to win here in Qatar and in Abu Dhabi. It’s unfortunate, but that’s how life is sometimes.”

Norris also mentioned that the height adjustment of the plank for the upcoming Qatar GP will likely result in increased car speed, benefiting both drivers.

He remarked: “We’ll probably be quicker now that we have to raise it because I won’t need to ease off everywhere. Many assume it’ll slow us down, but it might actually enhance our speed. I’m looking forward to all of it.

“I’ve never encountered this situation before, but I’m excited. I believe it’s thrilling for everyone. I would have preferred a 30-point gap instead of 24, but it makes it more interesting for you guys, so that’s good for you.

“I think I’ll just focus on achieving a good qualifying position and have a solid race, taking it step by step. I’m indifferent, but obviously, the sooner I can do it, the better.

“Simultaneously, that doesn’t alter my approach. I simply need to strive for victory, and it’s as straightforward as that.”

The McLaren driver is determined to optimize the car's performance and deliver his best in the upcoming races, rather than concentrating on his competitors.

“Max won last year, and I believe he clinched the title the year before as well,” the Briton commented regarding previous races in Qatar. “We enter with the same expectations, anticipating a close contest. Red Bull has generally been the strongest over the past six or seven races.

“We foresee a challenging battle and expect it to be tough. We don’t approach it expecting anything to be easy. We work hard, concentrate on our performance, and aim to qualify on pole and win both races.

“We didn’t execute well enough [in Las Vegas], so it’s quite simple. We acknowledge the mistake, but nothing changes. For the time being, I’m relaxed and ready to race – especially after last weekend, I have an even greater desire to get on track and rectify the previous results. I feel prepared to continue our positive momentum.”