Lando Norris is targeting a bold move on Max Verstappen at the start of Formula 1’s Miami Grand Prix, determined to make an impact from the opening corner. Although Norris acknowledges the challenges, he believes the race’s layout with multiple DRS zones and heavy braking points will create more overtaking chances compared to previous circuits like Suzuka. Starting second on the grid gives the British driver the inside line into Turn 1, setting the stage for a crucial early battle to challenge Verstappen’s dominance.
In qualifying, Norris struggled to keep pace with Verstappen after a mistake at Turn 17 disrupted his rhythm, allowing the Red Bull driver to secure pole position. Despite this, Norris expressed readiness to test his grip on the race’s opening moments, emphasizing his hope to capitalize on closer competition.
I’m ready to see what I could do into Turn 1,
he said, highlighting his belief that the race’s conditions favor ambitious passing attempts.
He contrasted the Miami layout with Suzuka, where he found overtaking difficult due to the track’s smoother tire wear and fewer braking zones.
The DRS helps a lot around here with the overtaking. It’s what you need. You also have some much bigger braking zones than you have in Suzuka, so I hope so anyway,
Norris explained. This optimism hints at a more dynamic race, where tactical aggression early on might shift the balance between the top contenders.
Norris, who finished second behind Verstappen in Japan, also acknowledged the strong pace of other rivals.
I don’t just expect competition from Max. Kimi Antonelli’s been quick all weekend and Oscar Piastri has been as well. So yeah, I just expect a tough race from all accounts,
he remarked, underscoring the intense battle among the leading drivers.
After tough outings in Bahrain and Jeddah, Norris approached the Miami weekend with a more positive mindset, bolstered by improvements made in the McLaren simulator. He has been working closely with his team to adapt the MCL39 to his driving style, which he admits has felt somewhat mismatched this season.
I’m very happy with the end result,
he said after qualifying,
It’s just a shame when you miss out on pole, so that’s the only frustrating bit.
His continued efforts to refine his approach appear to be paying off, as Norris feels closer to unlocking the car’s potential.
I think I’ve been trying different things, I’ve been doing different things with the team to try and work a bit more in this area and things have been taking a step forward. So I’m happy. Maybe not quite there yet, but happy with the progress,
he added. This steady improvement raises hopes that Norris can convert promise into performance during the race.
The stakes are high for Lando Norris at the Miami GP, where a successful first-lap pass on Verstappen could dramatically alter the race’s narrative and boost his championship campaign. As the field prepares to race under intense pressure and closely contested conditions, fans and experts alike will watch keenly to see if Norris’s determination translates into race-winning moves. His ability to seize early opportunities may prove decisive in breaking the hold of the dominant Red Bull team and shaping the remainder of the season.
