P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Lando Norris came within touching distance of beating Max Verstappen to win Formula 1’s Emilia Romagna Grand Prix – but what factors conspired to see McLaren almost topple Red Bull once more in 2024? McLaren benefitted from the risk-averse decision to introduce upgrades on a Sprint weekend at Miami, with the revised parts inspiring Norris […]
McLaren’s decision to introduce upgrades on a Sprint weekend at Miami paid off as Norris secured his first victory. The team’s developments showed promise and Norris capitalized on a mid-race Safety Car situation and a struggling Red Bull to edge out Verstappen. Verstappen faced balance struggles with his RB20 throughout the weekend, while McLaren and Ferrari maintained an edge over Red Bull in practice. Despite mounting pressure, Verstappen put in a strong Q3 lap to clinch pole position but faced a fierce challenge from Norris during the race. Norris closed in on Verstappen in the final laps, pushing the Red Bull driver to his limits before ultimately finishing just seven-tenths behind at the finish line. Verstappen’s unexpected struggles and Norris’s relentless pursuit shifted the momentum in McLaren’s favor, resulting in a thrilling and memorable race.
