Stella claims McLaren needs to "extract the maximum potential" from the MCL39

Stella said, "It’s been a positive first day here in Jeddah, where we were able to complete a number of important test items and establish a reasonable performance baseline”

Stella continued, “We completed a good number of laps, enabling the drivers to build confidence, which is particularly important at this high-speed, but technically challenging circuit. Having said this, the field seems very tightly packed, and we will need to extract the maximum potential from the car for Qualifying. We have plenty of data to analyse this evening and look forward to getting back on track tomorrow."

Norris topped the second free practice but came second during the first practice session after a surprise drive from Pierre Gasly.

He said it was, "A good start to the weekend and a productive first day on track, getting comfy in the car and building confidence.

Norris currently leads the World Drivers Championship, but his teammate, Piastri, is close behind him with only three points separating them.

Norris concluded, "We’ve got good data available with plenty of laps recorded, so I'll keep working hard overnight with the team, focusing on the different areas we’ve identified in preparation for tomorrow’s Qualifying."