For Lando Norris, his first victory in Formula 1 was long overdue. “It was about time. It had been hinting at it for a long time, I’ve finally done it,” said the McLaren driver after his success at the Grand Prix in Miami.
With a bit of racing luck, the 24-year-old defeated three-time world champion Max Verstappen in the Red Bull and crossed the finish line first for the first time in the 110th Formula 1 appearance of his career.
“So that’s how it’s done. Finally. I’m so happy,” the Brit then radioed to his team. Already in the morning he felt that it could work this time after a few missed opportunities in the past. “Many people had doubts about me along the way. I’ve also made mistakes in the last few years,” said Norris and enthused before the award ceremony: “This is a moment you will never forget.”
The defeated Verstappen, who had previously won four of five World Cup races this season, granted Norris his success. “I’m happy for Lando, it’s been a long time coming. He’s finally done it, he deserves it,” said the Dutchman. In the overall standings, the defending champion now leads by 35 points over teammate Sergio Pérez.
Despite the strength of the McLaren in Miami, Verstappen was not yet really worried that there could be a threat of a turnaround in the championship fight. “I hope not. That also has to do with the route,” said the 26-year-old. However, he warned his team with a view to the upcoming tasks in the European season: “We now have work to do, we have to analyze it.”
