Second in the Miami Grand Prix, Lando Norris shows mixed feelings despite an excellent weekend for McLaren.
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On the Miami International Autodrome circuit, Lando Norris secured his first podium of the 2026 F1 season by finishing second. A solid result, following his victory in the Sprint race, confirming McLaren’s return to form.
But behind this positive outcome, the Briton does not hide a certain frustration.
“I have to be satisfied, the team has to be satisfied, even if I am gutted to miss out on the win” he admits, aware that the opportunity was very real in Miami.
A costly strategy against Antonelli
The turning point of the race was played out in strategy, especially against Kimi Antonelli. McLaren suffered an undercut through the pits, a choice that weighed heavily in the balance.
“We suffered the undercut, no excuses, we should have stopped, Norris acknowledges. But Kimi did a very good job, hats off to Mercedes and him, it was a great race, it’s easy to make mistakes with these cars but he didn’t give me a chance to pass him” he adds.
Despite a solid pace, the McLaren driver never managed to regain the advantage on track.
A benchmark weekend for McLaren
Beyond the individual result, this Grand Prix confirms McLaren’s rise after a difficult start to the season. Norris emphasizes the team’s overall progress.
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“It remains a great race today” he considers, while highlighting the difficulties related to the new regulations and race management.
“It’s good, I enjoyed the race. Some things have improved, others are the same, but today, it was mainly about who would make a mistake and who wouldn’t” he explains.
Piastri confirms the momentum
On his side, Oscar Piastri also shone. Starting seventh, the Australian made a great comeback to clinch third place, securing a second consecutive podium.
“It wasn’t the smoothest weekend, qualifying yesterday was complicated for both of us, but the pace was encouraging today” he points out.
“I was able to make overtakes and a nice comeback at the end of the race. We got closer, thanks to the team, it’s good to see” he continues, satisfied with the progress shown.
McLaren looking ahead
With this double podium and the Sprint win, McLaren leaves Miami with solid certainties. The team now seems capable of regularly competing at the front.
“We showed this weekend that if we have a good position on track, we can hold it, concludes Piastri. We should take another step forward in Canada, so I’m excited for what’s next.”
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A clear message: McLaren is back in the fight.