Lando Norris Ends Max Verstappen’s Winning Streak
Lando Norris claimed the maiden victory of his career at the Miami Grand Prix, ending Max Verstappen’s dominating winning streak. In his 110th Formula One appearance, the 24-year-old from Bristol started fifth and capitalized on a safety car period at the Hard Rock Stadium to overtake Verstappen and secure the chequered flag.
Norris’ Triumph and Verstappen’s Reaction
An emotional Norris crossed the finish line ahead of Verstappen, who couldn’t match the British driver’s impressive pace. This victory marked McLaren’s first win in nearly three years. Verstappen settled for second place, with Charles Leclerc finishing third for Ferrari, followed by Carlos Sainz in fourth. Lewis Hamilton achieved his best result of the season by finishing sixth.
Norris’ Journey to Victory
Since his debut in 2019, Norris has emerged as one of the brightest talents on the grid. Despite numerous podium finishes, he had never claimed the top spot until the Miami Grand Prix. The race, with former US president Donald Trump visiting the McLaren garage before the start, belonged to Norris.
Verstappen, who secured pole position and looked set for a comfortable win, faced a setback when he pitted for new tires, allowing Norris to take the lead. A pivotal moment came when a collision between Kevin Magnussen and Logan Sargeant led to a safety car deployment, giving Norris a strategic advantage.
Norris’ Triumphal Finish
With a lead and fresher tires, Norris successfully fended off Verstappen’s challenges in the closing laps. He extended his lead, ultimately crossing the finish line 7.6 seconds ahead of his rivals. Norris celebrated his victory with his team, expressing his joy and gratitude for the support.
After the race, Norris shared his excitement over the radio, dedicating the win to his family and team. The victory marked a significant milestone in his career, solidifying his position as a top contender in Formula One.