Ahead of Miami, McLaren look to 'consolidate championship momentum'

19:10, 28 Apr

Updated: 21:44, 28 Apr

byNorberto Mujica

After a 'successful' triple header McLaren now set its sights on Miami, where Lando Norris hopes to regain the championship lead from teammate Oscar Piastri as it being a sprint weekend, naturally means there are 'more points to race for.'

After a week's rest, Norris goes back to a place he holds fond memories of.

For Norris it's a chance to cut Piastri's lead

“It’s been good to recharge after a busy triple-header, but I’m excited to get back in the car, especially in Miami. It’s where I won my first F1 race, so this place is special to me. The fans here also bring a great atmosphere, so I’m excited to see all the papaya in the stands,“ Norris said in a McLaren press release.

"Last week, I was back at the MTC with the team, and in the sim to prepare for Miami. It’s a Sprint weekend which means there are more points to race for. It should be another good weekend – bring it on!”

Piastri eyes opportunites to keep championship momentum

For the Australian who currently has the impulse in the championship, Miami is a chance to continue putting his best foot forward.

“I’m excited to be getting back to business this weekend in Miami and will be aiming to execute another strong all-round weekend before we head into the European swing of the season.“

"I love the city, the atmosphere and the people and it’s a track that I’m feeling very positive about. It’s also a Sprint weekend so there will be plenty of opportunities to keep the current momentum and energy building,” Piastri said.

Oscar Piastri fends off Max Verstappen at Saudi Arabia

Stella signals Miami as key for consolidating McLaren's momentum

It was in Miami, precisely, where Mclaren introduced a hefty upgrade package that saw them go from the fourth fastest team to the fastest across all circuits, and where Norris landed his first F1 win, which Stella notes, as he outlines the goals for the team in this year's edition of the race in Florida.

“After a successful triple header, we now head to the US for the Miami Grand Prix. This is a special race for us as it’s where Lando took his first F1 race win, which was a key turning point in our journey to becoming World Champions last year.

"This year, the level of competition is potentially even greater than last season, so we go to Miami focused on maintaining momentum and consolidating our progress.“

"The fans always add to the already exciting atmosphere in Miami, and asalways are of great encouragement to the team, we can’t wait to go racing again.”