In a groundbreaking moment for the Abu Dhabi Autonomous Racing League, Lando Norris emerged as the victor after 110 attempts at a grand prix win. This long-awaited triumph solidifies McLaren’s progress following the introduction of a significant F1 upgrade package at the Miami Grand Prix. However, questions arise regarding the role of luck versus skill in Norris’s victory and whether the circumstances surrounding his first win hold significance in light of his consistent performance in Formula 1. Our writers share their perspectives on the matter.
While fortune may have played a part, it does not diminish the significance of Norris’s outstanding victory. Many F1 drivers have experienced favorable circumstances when breaking their win drought during an era dominated by others. Nevertheless, Norris’s triumph required him to perform at his best. Despite a compromised first stint, he managed to preserve his tires effectively, unleash exceptional pace in clear air, defend intelligently during the restart to secure the lead, and capitalize on the circumstances to establish a significant gap.
Undeniably, the safety car played a crucial role by granting Norris valuable positions, and Verstappen’s struggles further contributed to his success. However, Norris’s impressive pace before the restart indicates the advantage he would have had over Verstappen regardless. While assistance may have been present, his speed and performance were well-deserved. Therefore, this victory should be celebrated without any reservations.
Speculating about alternative scenarios is always challenging. What truly matters is what transpired during the race. The McLarens demonstrated exceptional speed in race trim, and it would not have been surprising to see two of them on the podium. McLaren’s ability to successfully implement updates to their car showcases their capability to challenge the top teams at most tracks. Norris’s win may have been influenced by the FIA’s mishap with the safety car placement, but McLaren’s strategic decision to extend the first stint created the opportunity for success.
However, it is crucial to evaluate Norris’s race from the restart after the safety car period. Over the course of approximately 25 laps, Norris managed to establish a lead of over seven seconds against Verstappen in a Red Bull. Such a feat has been rare in recent times. Therefore, this victory will not be remembered solely as a result of a fortuitously timed safety car. Norris’s exceptional pace before and after that pivotal moment solidifies his achievement.
Furthermore, the overwhelming support and congratulations from fellow drivers following Norris’s win highlight the positive impact this victory had on the F1 community. Witnessing the camaraderie and admiration among drivers was a heartwarming moment for the sport.
Norris’s first F1 win may have involved some good fortune, such as the well-timed safety car, but he also created his own luck through rapid laps during his first stint and consistently fast laps after the safety car restart. This victory also reflects McLaren’s management over the past few seasons. Despite setbacks in 2022 and a slow start in 2023, McLaren’s resilience allowed them to surpass Aston Martin and secure fourth place in the constructors’ championship. McLaren’s journey stands in stark contrast to the struggles faced by Alpine and Mercedes.
Alpine, in particular, has faced numerous challenges, with Miami marking their first points-scoring race of the 2024 season. Leadership changes within the Enstone team have exposed mismanagement issues. On the other hand, Mercedes has fallen short of expectations as a championship-contending team, with limited progress in improving their W15. Two years ago, it would have been difficult to imagine McLaren reclaiming the top spot so soon, let alone showcasing exemplary management and leadership by mid-2024.
Norris’s win places him in uncharted territory, as no other driver has displayed his level of skill while waiting as long for a victory. This triumph puts an end to the predictable narrative surrounding Norris’s quest for a race win. However, in terms of evaluating Norris as an F1 driver, this win does not significantly alter our perception. We already knew he possessed the talent to win races, and his lack of success was primarily a result of unfortunate circumstances. Norris’s caliber as a race winner was evident beforehand, and this victory merely confirms it.