The Briton had looked strong heading into the final Q3 shootout for the top grid spots, after leading the way in the Q2 segment of qualifying for Sunday's race.
But drivers endured a tricky time in setting their laps in Q3 as a major storm blew over the Interlagos track, and Norris failed to repeat his earlier form to end up seventh on the grid.
Max Verstappen claimed the top spot ahead of Charles Leclerc and the two Aston Martins.
Afterwards, Norris could not hide his disappointment at the missed opportunity.
"The car was amazing," he said. "It was quick enough to be quickest today and on pole, so pretty gutted [to end up] the way we did.
"I don't know what to feel about [it]. I think the car was amazing.
"It came alive a lot in qualifying and was easily good enough to be quickest, let's say. Delivering the lap, and putting it together in Q3, everything's a different job.
"Easily quick enough, so disappointed. Another disappointing Saturday, not a lot we could have done."
Source: Autosport