McLaren's Norris wins Miami Grand Prix for first F1 win

MIAMI : McLaren's Lando Norris capitalised on a bit of good fortune to win the Miami Grand Prix on Sunday, holding off Red Bull's triple world champion Max Verstappen for his first Formula One victory.

It was a long overdue triumph for the Briton who held the record for most podiums without a win (15), having finished runner-up an agonising eight times in 110 grand prix.

Verstappen had seemed well placed to claim a fifth win in six races until a midway crash allowed McLaren to cash in on a safety car period, with Norris pitting and coming out with the lead.

Seeking a Miami hat-trick of wins, the Dutchman filled Norris's mirrors on the restart but his Red Bull could offer no challenge as the McLaren pulled clear.

Ferrari's Charles Leclerc completed the podium, coming home third ahead of team mate Carlos Sainz.

"About time! What a race. It's been a long time coming. Finally I've managed to do it," Norris told Sky Sports. "I'm so happy for my whole team. I finally delivered for them.

"Long day, tough race. Finally on top, so I'm over the moon. I'm just proud. A lot of people doubted me along the way.

"I've made a lot of mistakes over my last five years in my short career but today we put it all together."

In a season dominated by Red Bull it was a hugely popular win by the 24-year-old Briton.

Pulling into the pit lane Norris was mobbed by his team, congratulated by the other drivers and cheered by a massive crowd at the Miami International Autodrome that included former U.S. president Donald Trump, who visited the McLaren garage prior to the race.

Until Sunday it had been another dominant weekend for Red Bull as Verstappen topped the timesheets in the only practice session and sprint qualifying on Friday and then won the sprint