Max Verstappen left Miami with more questions than answers. The four‑time Formula 1 champion managed a fifth‑place finish at the Grand Prix, but his spin on the opening lap and lingering frustrations with car regulations kept him from celebrating too much. Yankee Scores reports.
A Chaotic Start
Ma Verstappen was feeling comfortable in his car first the first time this season, at the Miami Grand Prix.
After Red Bull’s upgrade to the car during the five week break, the four-time Formula 1 champion had his best result on Sunday, finishing fifth.
Verstappen qualified second, his best of the season, but spun while battling Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc into Turn 2. He dropped to ninth before recovering with a daring 360 maneuver. “I thought I was going to crash but then I floored it and managed to do a good 360,” Verstappen joked. “If F1 doesn’t work out, I could always go Rally racing.”
Fighting Back Through the Field
Despite the setback, Verstappen climbed back into contention, even briefly leading as pit strategies unfolded. He attempted a one‑stop race, but the hard compound tires proved costly. “The pace was not too bad on the mediums, but the stint on the hards was just too long,” he admitted.
Still Seeking Improvements
Red Bull introduced upgrades during the five‑week break, and Verstappen acknowledged the car felt “a bit better.” Yet he remained critical of F1’s current regulations. “What I said before about the regulations is the same. It’s still not how I would like to see it,” he said, hinting at his ongoing frustration with the sport’s direction.
Ferrari’s Tough Weekend
Leclerc, who surged to the lead early, spun into the barriers late and finished sixth. “I’m very disappointed with myself. It’s all on me and it’s not acceptable,” he said. Teammate Lewis Hamilton settled for seventh after contact at the start.
Celebrities in the Stands
The Miami Grand Prix drew a star‑studded crowd despite rainy weather. Lionel Messi, Serena Williams, Rafael Nadal, Bam Adebayo, and Jimmy Fallon were among those spotted, with Nadal waving the checkered flag to close the race.
