It also happens to those like Max Verstappen that a bad weekend happens. But this time it wasn't just Red Bull's fault but rather McLaren's credit. The English team grew race after race, arriving in Miami with updates that immediately highlighted the impressive pace of Lando Norris' MCL38. The Sprint weekend led the teams to immediately find the right set up, reopening the challenge. During the race Lando was also able to count on a Safety that came from heaven, as if fate was finally smiling on him. So there was nothing for Max to do, beaten for the first time on the track. We will only find out whether this is the prelude to a new challenge over the next few months. In the meantime, let's look at Verstappen's statements at the end of the match Miami GP.
Verstappen smiles despite the defeat
Verstappen is not used to being beaten. Before today, the Dutchman had won every completed race this year. In fact, in Melbourne he had to withdraw due to a problem with his RB20. In Miami the defeat came with the warm rays of the sun. However, the fact of being beaten did not upset Max, who enjoyed the party on the podium together with his best friend in the paddock, Lando Norris. Lando and Max are great friends, but despite this on the track they are both determined to win. Compared to Max, Lando had far fewer opportunities to take victory. Which Max hopes will change, also to see more exciting duels.
“You win, you lose, we're all used to this in racing, right? Today was difficult… I think it was definitely not our best weekend in terms of race pace, but we will analyze everything and try to come back stronger. In the race, once they switched to the hard tyre, the McLarens had more pace, especially Lando who was flying. But if P2 is a bad day, I can't complain. I'm very happy for Lando, it was a long-awaited success and it won't be the last, so today he really deserves it."
Lando Norris demonstrated, for the first time, that Red Bull is beatable in a direct clash. And Ferrari can't wait to be able to demonstrate with the first updates, which will debut in Imola, that it can do the same. At Imola Oscar Piastri will also receive the complete upgrade package assembled by Lando, with the renewed hope of being able to beat Red Bull on other occasions too.
In the standings Verstappen remains in the lead after Miami with a 35 point lead. Perez, however, slips further back, in fifth position.
Source statements: F1
