McLaren’s Miami Masterclass: Piastri Holds His Nerve

McLaren’s scorching Miami one‑two showcased Oscar Piastri’s cool nerve, Lando Norris’s relentless chase and Zak Brown’s serene strategic faith all the way.

McLaren walked away from Miami with a dream result: Oscar Piastri headed a one‑two finish ahead of teammate Lando Norris. For team CEO Zak Brown, the victory was built on simple priorities and calm execution at the start.

“We knew our race pace was strong. The key was staying patient off the line. Once both cars cleared traffic, everything was under control,” Brown explained.

Brown also felt Max Verstappen did not leave Norris the required space at Turn 1. “If someone is alongside you, you must give room. That did not happen here, though Lando still produced a brilliant second place.”

Historically, anyone who fails to pass Verstappen on the first try has a tougher time later, Brown noted. “Oscar cleared Max quickly. If the move does not stick immediately, it only gets harder. He closed in fast and both drivers managed it perfectly.”

Late in the race Norris tried to reel Piastri back in but had no success. “We let them race. If they choose not to, that is also fine. Looking at the lap times, neither had any margin in hand, so both delivered exactly what we needed.”

Brown rejected the idea that McLaren’s wins have been straightforward this season. “This makes five or six victories, and the statistics look dominant. Yet from the pit wall none of them felt easy. Australia was tight, and in three of those races we did not have the fastest car on raw pace. Operationally, we were sharper.”

With two titles still on the line, Brown refused to talk about early celebrations. “There is a long way to go. Last year at this point we were third in the standings. The team leading then finished third, while we won the championship. Anything can still happen.”