In the Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix race, Lando Norris, driver of the McLaren team, became the winner for the first time in his career, thereby breaking Max Verstappen’s unbroken streak of success. Norris, a 24-year-old driver from Bristol who started fifth, used the safety car at Hard Rock Stadium to beat Verstappen to take the checkered flag.
The finish line was crossed by Norris a few seconds ahead of Verstappen, who failed to match the British driver’s brilliant pace. This marked the McLaren team’s first victory in three years, returning them to the top of the podium after a long break.
Despite a strong start and victory in the sprint on Saturday, Verstappen had to settle for second place, while Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc finished third ahead of teammate Carlos Sainz. Lewis Hamilton, the seven-time world champion, finished sixth, his best result of the season.
Norris, who has quickly become one of the racing world’s brightest stars since his debut in Melbourne in 2019, last month became the first driver in Formula One’s 74-year history to finish on the podium 14 times without ever reaching the top step.
Despite Verstappen making a strong start from pole and setting a fast pace, the race suddenly swung in Norris’ favor when Haas driver Kevin Magnussen collided with Logan Sargeant, forcing the safety car. As a result of this, Norris took the lead and was able to maintain the lead until the very end.
Verstappen followed Norris at 180mph into the first corner, but the British driver skillfully held his position, preventing the Dutchman from passing. Norris then managed to set the fastest lap of the race, beating Verstappen by one second and effectively securing the victory.
“Oh, I love you all,” Norris shouted joyfully over the radio after crossing the finish line. Thank you mom, thank you dad, this is for my grandma, thank you very much.”