Formula 1 had a tense moment after the Miami GP Sprint Qualifying involving Lando Norris. The Brit was investigated by the stewards but was ultimately cleared and kept his position on the grid.
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The decision was crucial for the formation of the Sprint starting grid, as Norris had secured pole by beating Kimi Antonelli by two tenths. With the verdict, the McLaren driver remains in first position, without any penalty.
The case arose after Norris was accused of driving unnecessarily slowly at turn 17, which could have hindered Nico Hulkenberg. The stewards reviewed the incident and understood that the situation required a reaction from the driver to create space before his flying lap.
In an official statement, the stewards explained: “Car 1 was within the allowed delta time for almost the entire lap, until just before turn 17, when it was overtaken by car 27. This forced him to react to create adequate space to start his flying lap.”
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Based on this context, the FIA considered there was a mitigating circumstance and concluded that Norris did not drive unduly slowly. Thus, no punishment was applied to the McLaren driver.
With this, Norris secures his first pole of the season and starts at the front in the Sprint, followed by Antonelli. Teammate Oscar Piastri completes the top three, consolidating a strong start for the team during the weekend in Miami.
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