MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. — The Formula 1 season is off to an exhilarating start, already hinting at a thrilling championship rivalry with intriguing internal team dynamics. Australian driver Oscar Piastri has emerged as a formidable contender, challenging the hierarchy at McLaren Racing. Piastri has clinched victory in three of the season’s first five races, establishing himself as a front-runner in the driver standings. Meanwhile, his teammate Lando Norris, once viewed as McLaren’s future star, is trailing Piastri by just 10 points with one victory under his belt.
As Formula 1 heads to the United States for Sunday’s Miami Grand Prix, McLaren CEO Zak Brown has made it clear he is letting the rivalry unfold organically. “Let them race,” Brown stated, indicating that no driver will be officially designated as the team’s number one until one clearly emerges as the superior title threat. He mentioned, “We’ll only make that decision if it’s evident, like last season. Until then, they will receive the same support.”
Reflecting on last year’s Miami race, Lando Norris triumphed over Max Verstappen, earning his maiden career victory at the event surrounding Hard Rock Stadium. The triumph allowed Norris to shake off the “Lando No Wins” nickname, and he celebrated in style on South Beach. Rival driver Pierre Gasly expressed admiration, stating, “I kind of envy Lando for getting his first race win here.”
Norris remains unfazed by Piastri’s recent successes. “Not worried at all. He’s doing a good job and he deserves it,” Norris remarked, acknowledging that he is yet to find his top form but is confident improvement is on the horizon. “It’s round six of 24. I know I need to get a move on,” he acknowledged, emphasizing his belief in his capability to elevate his performance.
In a different garage, Lewis Hamilton’s transition to Ferrari this season is proving challenging. Despite a sprint race victory in Shanghai, Hamilton has struggled to finish in the top four at any Grand Prix event. He currently trails his teammate Charles Leclerc by 16 points. Hamilton likened his adjustment phase to his early days at Mercedes, highlighting the difficulties in adapting to new engineers and car setup.
Besides racing challenges, Hamilton is also grappling with lifestyle adjustments in Italy, where he is attempting to learn the language while savoring the local cuisine. “Trying to stay off the pizzas and the pasta, which I’m struggling with,” Hamilton admitted, hinting at his indulgences.
On the broadcasting front, the search for a new television partner in the United States is ongoing. ESPN, whose contract with F1 concludes in 2026, has opted not to renew. With F1’s increasing popularity in North America, significant interest is evident, as shared by F1 president Stefano Domenicali: “The good news is that there is a lot of interest.”
The Miami Grand Prix has secured a 10-year extension, affirming its place on the calendar through 2041. Formula 1 continues to expand its presence in the U.S. and across North America, bolstered by the returns of Ford and General Motors to the sport next season.