sports
Mercedes may have won again but Miami upgrades have shaken up the F1 grid
The improved form of McLaren and Red Bull in Florida suggests the 2026 title race is likely to run and run
TL;DR
- Upgrades brought by McLaren and Red Bull to Miami have significantly closed the gap to Mercedes, indicating a fierce development war for the F1 season.
- McLaren and Red Bull showed strong form, with Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri achieving a one-two in the sprint race, and Max Verstappen performing strongly after aero upgrades.
- Drivers, including Lando Norris and Max Verstappen, expressed continued dissatisfaction with the new 'energy management' regulations, calling for the removal of the battery system.
- Despite driver complaints, F1 considers the new regulations a success due to increased overtaking and crowd approval, a view supported by some team principals.
- Ferrari did not make the same strides as McLaren and Red Bull, facing issues with fading pace and tyre degradation.
- Further developments are expected from McLaren and Mercedes in the upcoming Canadian Grand Prix, promising a sustained competitive fight.