Norris limited F1 practice running due to back pain

McLaren’s Lando Norris decided to limit his running during second practice for Formula 1’s Styrian Grand Prix after suffering with some back pain earlier in the day.

Norris felt some upper back pain during the morning’s opening practice session at the Red Bull Ring and underwent some treatment after FP1 concluded.

Despite feeling better afterwards, the Briton opted to limit running in the second 90-minute practice session in order to minimise aggravating the problem again.

Norris completed 31 laps in FP2 and was eighth-fastest, some eight tenths off the pace of pacesetter Max Verstappen.

Speaking after the session, Norris told Sky Sports: “I’ve been struggling a bit with something physically. I don’t know with what, but it’s been making my day a lot harder basically.

“I’ve not been able to do as many laps. I’ve had to limit them quite a bit to make sure I’m in shape for tomorrow and Sunday, so not as smooth sailing as what last week was. I think I’m a bit on the back foot compared to laps and everything.”

After starring in the season-opening Austrian Grand Prix by claiming his first-ever podium, Norris’ has already suffered a setback for the second consecutive race in Austria this weekend after picking up a three-place grid penalty for overtaking under yellow flags in FP1.

“It’s my mistake to be honest,” Norris explained. “I was on a push lap, both of these guys were on an out-lap or a cool lap.

“I slowed up for the yellow flag, which you’re meant to do, but I just continued to roll past the two other guys. It’s my mistake. [It was a] bit stupid of me.”