McLaren explain Donald Trump garage visit at Miami GP after sparking controversy

During the Miami Grand Prix, Donald Trump paid a visit to the McLaren garage.

McLaren have defended their decision to have former US president Donald Trump as a guest at the Miami Grand Prix, saying they were “honoured” to fulfil the “request” to visit the garage.

Lando Norris achieved his first-ever Formula 1 victory at the Miami Grand Prix on Sunday, with former US President Trump among the spectators at the age of 77.

‘We were honoured that McLaren Racing was chosen as the representative of F1’

A guest in the McLaren garage, Trump met with Norris after the race to offer his congratulations to the Briton.

However, his visit was not free from controversy.

Trump, who is once again seeking the presidency in the United States, currently finds himself engaged in a legal battle in New York, facing a total of 34 felony charges. He vehemently denies all allegations against him.

However, despite the mixed reactions from partisan F1 fans on social media, McLaren has received support from the Woking team, who have defended their decision.

McLaren’s spokesperson stated that although McLaren remains apolitical, they acknowledge and hold reverence for the position of the President of the United States. Hence, when the request to visit our garage on race day was extended, we accepted it, along with the President of the FIA, as well as the CEOs of Liberty Media and Formula 1.

“We felt privileged when McLaren Racing was selected as the representative of F1, allowing us to exhibit our exceptional engineering prowess in the field of motorsport.”

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The updated Drivers’ and Constructors’ standings after the Miami Grand Prix

As for Norris, Formula 1’s newest race winner said it was an “honour” meeting the former president who told the Briton he had been his “lucky charm” as he broke his duck.

“I wasn’t able to spot him in the garage,” he explained. “I was occupied preparing for the race. However, he caught sight of me later on and approached me to offer his congratulations.”

I consider it an honor when someone like this takes the time to approach me and show their respect for my accomplishments.

“I’m unsure if he will attend future races since he claimed to be my lucky charm for this victory.”

However, there have been numerous extraordinary individuals or impressive individuals present this weekend. Donald is one person whom you must hold in high regard for various reasons.

I am grateful for individuals who recognize the opportunities available and appreciate the hard work required to achieve them. It was a cool moment, and I am truly thankful for it.

Read next: Miami Grand Prix conclusions: McLaren, not Ferrari, are Red Bull’s biggest threat

 

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