Miami Grand Prix: Lando Norris wins sprint race from Oscar Piastri

Norris’ victory, which came after a major upgrade to his McLaren car on this fourth race weekend of the season, was a significant statement after a difficult start to the season for the world champions.

He managed the race carefully, making sure he didn’t overwork his medium tires in the early laps before taking control, increasing the gap to Piastri.

Leclerc initially held off a train that included Mercedes drivers Hamilton and Verstappen, while Piastri closed in on Norris in the opening laps.

But Leclerc stayed away from the fight and began to put pressure on Piastri, until the Australian regained the clearance to pull away again in the final two laps.

Antonelli made his fifth consecutive poor start in all races this season, challenging Russell as he went sideways into the first corner with the Briton on the inside.

Antonelli rose to the challenge but Russell overtook him at the first corner on lap seven. One lap later the Italian driver dropped to fourth place at the end of the long straight at Turn 11 and retained his position until the end. The penalty he received reduced his lead over Russell in the championship to seven points.

Behind them, Verstappen pushed Hamilton aside at Turn Three on the first lap, before the seven-time champion regained the place later in the lap.

The two ran close together until Verstappen passed Hamilton on lap seven. However, the move ended with both cars leaving the track and Verstappen was advised to give the place back to his 2021 title rival.

However, two laps later, Verstappen ended the race completely and overtook the Ferrari at the final corner.

Alpine driver Pierre Gasly took eighth place, taking the final point ahead of Red Bull’s Isack Hadjar and Gasly’s teammate Franco Colapinto.

Qualifying for Sunday’s main grand prix will take place at 21:00 CET.