McLaren Team Principal Andrea Stella is certain Lando Norris would have been in a “strong position” to win Formula 1’s Miami Grand Prix even without the Safety Car. Norris capitalised on the Safety Car intervening on Lap 29 to pit under a reduced time loss and retain the lead to secure his maiden F1 victory […]
Lando Norris secured his first F1 victory in his 110th appearance by capitalizing on the Safety Car intervention on Lap 29 to pit without losing the lead. Despite dropping to sixth place at the start, Norris extended his first stint, maintaining a competitive pace on worn rubber before his rivals pitted. The crash involving Logan Sargeant and Kevin Magnussen at Turn 3 triggered the decisive intervention, allowing Norris to change tires and stay in front without losing position. McLaren’s Stella highlighted Norris’ strong pace during his stint and the strategic advantage he would have had even without the Safety Car. The team’s plan was to keep Norris out as long as he was setting personal best times and stay prepared for any opportunities, such as a potential Safety Car or an advantage from fresher tires for attacking rivals. Stella emphasized Norris’ calm and comfort in the car, revealing that there was no intention to pit as long as he could maintain competitive lap times and green sectors.”
