Lando Norris humorously admitted that his hopes for Max Verstappen’s new fatherhood to slow down the Miami Grand Prix polesitter were quickly dashed, after Verstappen secured pole position by 0.065 seconds. The qualifying session took place on Saturday in Miami, where Verstappen managed a strong first sector despite a slight wobble in the opening corner, ultimately proving unbeatable.
Norris responded with a strong performance in the second sector, trailing Verstappen by only a few thousandths of a second, but a mistake on the kerbs at Turn 17 allowed Verstappen to clinch his third pole of the 2024 season. Despite this, Norris remained positive about his pace and comfort in the car at the Floridian circuit, though he acknowledged Verstappen’s lap was simply flawless.
Congrats to Max, especially being a dad now. I was hoping it would slow him down!
Norris joked after qualifying. He continued,
I’m happy with today, happy with the progress I’ve made with the car. Max did a Max lap once again and I can’t fault him. I’m happy and excited for tomorrow.
Norris also reflected on his own performance, noting the missed opportunity caused by his error at Turn 17.
It’s all should’ve, could’ve, would’ve stuff. I didn’t deliver but the pace was there. The car has been feeling good, better than I have done the last few weekends,
he said, expressing renewed confidence in his vehicle’s setup.
Looking ahead to the race, Norris expressed readiness to challenge Verstappen into the first corner despite his qualifying slip-up. Additionally, he remarked on his sprint race victory, achieved thanks to a well-timed safety car intervention, and showed an open attitude towards the unpredictable Miami weather conditions.
I’ve still not put it together but it is what it is. I’m ready to see what we can do into Turn 1 tomorrow. I don’t mind if it’s dry or wet but Miami has been surprising with the weather so I’m ready for both,
Norris stated, signaling his determination to capitalize on every opportunity during the main race.
The dynamic between Lando Norris and Max Verstappen remains intense as the 2024 season unfolds, with the Miami GP serving as a crucial battleground. Norris’s optimism and clear pace improvements suggest a growing threat to Verstappen’s dominance, making the upcoming race a must-watch for fans eagerly anticipating thrilling on-track battles and strategic maneuvers.
