Lando Norris reveals Fernando Alonso text in lead up to Austrian GP promotion

Sam Cooper 03 Jul 2023 6:04 PM

Lando Norris speaks to the media in Austria.

Lando Norris had already touched down in the UK when he learned he had moved up the Austrian GP order.

The McLaren man crossed the line in P5 but five hours after the chequered flag, his position was moved up one spot when former team-mate Carlos Sainz received a 10-second penalty for breaching track limits –one of eight drivers to receive post-race penaltiesfive hours after the Austrian Grand Prix finished.

When asked by PlanetF1.com, Norris revealed he had already touched down back in the UK when he learnt he was now in P4.

“I think Fernando [Alonso] straightaway texted me ‘busted’,” Norris said during the launch of McLaren’s chrome livery. “And then he told me to read what was happening and who we thought was going to get penalties and so on.

“So I actually found out as soon as I landed back in the UK, which is a nice thing. The easiest position gain of my life.”

Norris escaped a penalty himself, exceeding track limits on three occasions which only gave him the black and white flag, and said he knew that if Sainz made a mistake, he would be in a position to benefit.

PlanetF1.com recommends

Iconic McLaren chrome livery to make stunning return at British Grand Prix

Austrian GP driver ratings: Awful race for Lewis Hamilton as fellow Brit shines

“I think there was always that anticipation that if I had one [a penalty], Fernando would have got me. So I had to keep pushing.

“And at the same time, I knew if Carlos made a mistake, then there was a chance that I could get his position. I kind of fought as if something might have happened.

“My engineers was telling me enough about it. It was a pleasant surprise and more points for the whole team which was perfect.”