In a thrilling race that unfolded around a football stadium, Lando Norris of McLaren-Mercedes seized his first-ever Formula 1 victory at the Miami Grand Prix, leaving behind Max Verstappen of Red Bull-Honda RBPT. This victory was a long time coming for Norris, who had previously set a dubious record of 15 career podium finishes without a win.
The race was a strategic masterclass from Norris and his team. The McLaren car showed impressive speed on the medium compound tire throughout the weekend. The team's decision to extend Norris' stint beyond the tire's recommended operating window proved to be a game-changer when a safety car was deployed following Logan Sargeant’s crash on lap 29. This allowed Norris to pit from the lead without losing it.
Verstappen, who had the race seemingly under control, had just pitted and would have re-inherited the lead after all pit stops had cycled through. However, the safety car's deployment meant the field had to reduce speed, enabling Norris to pit without losing as much time as under normal racing conditions.
When the race resumed on lap 33, Norris got off to a great start and gradually built an 8-second lead over Verstappen by the time the checkered flag was waved. This victory was a popular one, with Norris expressing his joy and gratitude over the team radio, saying, "I knew it. I knew it walking in today. It was a day full of opportunity. Thanks, mom. Thanks, dad. This one is for Grandma."
Despite his second-place finish, Verstappen remains a dominant force in F1. He has won an astonishing 38 of 49 races since the beginning of the 2022 season. His performance at the Miami Grand Prix was also noteworthy as he secured his seventh consecutive pole position, the longest streak in F1 since Lewis Hamilton’s seven in a row in 2015.
The Miami Grand Prix was the first of three visits to the United States for the Formula 1 circuit this season. The race took place at the Miami International Autodrome, a 3.36-mile, 19-turn temporary street circuit in Miami Gardens, Florida. The weekend was filled with high temperatures, a slick track, and mid-range tires, making for some exciting racing.
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