Norris’s long-awaited first win in Formula 1 in Miami marks a pivotal moment in his career.
Lando Norris clinched his first Formula 1 victory on Sunday in Miami, flawlessly managing the race after taking the lead during the safety car period. The McLaren F1 driver then extended his advantage to win ahead of Max Verstappen.
“It was about time! I’ve been waiting for this for so long, and I’ve finally done it. I’m so happy for the entire team; I’m thrilled,” Norris stated. “I’m proud; the whole weekend was good. I faced some setbacks, but I knew from Friday that we had the pace. A few mistakes here and there, but it paid off today; we put everything together, and the strategy worked out. Thanks to the whole team, and obviously to my mom and dad.”
This comes after 15 podiums without a win, and the British driver admits that several missed opportunities have stayed on his mind. He also notes that this victory rewards his loyalty to McLaren, with whom he recently signed a contract extension.
“I’m just proud, really. A lot of people have doubted me; I’ve made mistakes over the five years of my short career, but it’s all for the team. I stayed at McLaren because I trust them, I believe in them, and today proves it.”
“We’ve always said” he would succeed “with the right equipment”
Andrea Stella, McLaren’s team principal, celebrated the success before joining his driver on the podium. The Italian is relieved to see his driver triumph and put past frustrations behind him: “The most important thing is Lando’s win because he deserves it so much.”
“We’ve always said that as soon as we gave him the right equipment, he would make it happen, and he has. I know the kind of work that goes into this. It’s so deserved for the McLaren team. I hope everyone savors this moment. This victory is for Gil de Ferran (former sporting director at McLaren).”
Zak Brown, CEO of McLaren, also expressed his delight at the success: “My nerves were a mess, they still are. But what a drive. The car was fantastic. I have to thank everyone at McLaren and here. All the hard work has paid off.”
The American had gotten a tattoo for Daniel Ricciardo’s win at Monza in 2021. Asked if he might get a tattoo for this victory, he didn’t rule it out: “Yeah, Miami, I don’t mind. It’s kind of my homeland, so why not?”
Lando first F1 victory. Lando first F1 victory
- You may also like>Norris Beats Verstappen in Miami and Wins His First F1 Race
- Following us on Facebook and Twitter
