Norris clocks the fastest time during practice session 2.
In the high-speed circuit of Monza, Lando Norris set the fastest time during the second free practice session for Formula 1, narrowly beating Charles Leclerc. Norris's teammate, Oscar Piastri, was a focus of his pursuit.
Norris's impressive performance comes after retiring from the race last Sunday in Zandvoort due to a McLaren defect. His return to competition at Monza was marked by his dominance in the second free practice session.
Leclerc, who came in second place, lost to Norris by 0.083 seconds. Despite the close margin, the Ferrari driver had to settle for the second spot. Lewis Hamilton finished fifth in the session, after topping the first practice.
In the standings, Piastri leads with 34 points, followed by Norris. Carlos Sainz placed seventh, between Piastri and Verstappen. Nico Hülkenberg secured the eighth position, making him the highest-placed German driver.
However, the session was not without its disappointments. Kimi Antonelli had a spin off the track early in his Mercedes, getting stuck in the gravel. His car had to be recovered with a crane during the session.
The Italian Grand Prix, to be broadcast on Sky, will take place on Sunday at 3:00 PM at Monza, Ferrari's home grand prix. The event is part of the Formula 1 series.
Andreas Seidl, the team principal for McLaren, will oversee the Italian Grand Prix. Seidl, who is the team principal for McLaren in 2025, will guide Norris and Piastri in their pursuit for the championship.