It was a well-deserved victory for Norris, who held the record for the most podium finishes without a win (15), including eight second-place finishes, in 110 grand prix races, making the likable British driver a fan favorite.
Even Verstappen, the three-time F1 World Champion for Red Bull who despises losing and was denied a third consecutive win in Miami by Norris, was one of the first to congratulate him. Norris was swarmed by his team, surfed through the pit lane crowd, and showered in champagne.
“It was a long time coming, and I’m genuinely happy to be beaten by Lando today,” Verstappen said with a smile. “He definitely deserved it.
“Winning your first race is a great feeling. It’s always quite emotional. It reminds you of all the days you worked towards achieving your dream of being on the podium,” added the Red Bull ace.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump, who visited the McLaren garage before the race, was thrilled to support a winner. Norris later revealed that Trump congratulated him and considered himself to be Norris’ lucky charm.
“He saw me afterwards and came to congratulate me,” said Norris, who had told his grandmother before coming to Miami that he was going to win a race. “He (Trump) said he was my lucky charm because it was my win, but I don’t know if he’s going to come to more races.”
“The celebration is in full swing in Somerset!” exclaimed Adam Norris to Sky Sports. “I’ve been to around 900 races over the past 16 years.
“As a parent, it’s interesting to know how many hours of support you put in. I counted 350 weekends away and all the races on different weekends. It’s fantastic. I’m so happy for him,” added Norris Sr.
Anthony Hamilton, another influential father in the success of his son, seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton, also sent Norris a congratulatory text.
While Norris had been waiting a long time for his first win, his wait was not the longest. Jenson Button, a former F1 World Champion, needed 113 races before his first victory, while Nico Rosberg required 111 races. Sergio Perez of Red Bull holds the record with 190 races before his first win, followed by Carlos Sainz of Ferrari with 150 races and Mark Webber with 130 races.
Norris was still finalizing his plans on how to celebrate his maiden victory, but he was already thinking about a second win.
“This only happens once when you achieve your first win. Tonight is going to be a memorable night,” said Norris, confirming that team boss Zak Brown had postponed the flight home until Monday to allow for a proper celebration. “I would like to think this is just the beginning, and now we’re even more determined for more success. We’ll stay focused and keep pushing.”
(Reporting by Steve Keating)
Party time 🥳
There’s a flight back from Miami tonight that now has plenty of available seats 😅#F1 #MiamiGP pic.twitter.com/bxco2jGN29
— Formula 1 (@F1) May 6, 2024