Miami had style, but was there any substance? | What was going on with Sir Jackie Stewart and Roger Federer?

On this week's Sky Sports F1 Podcast, Matt Baker is joined by Martin Brundle, Natalie Pinkham and Karun Chandhok to discuss all the thrills from the Miami Grand Prix. The team discuss if all 3 tyre compounds should be used during different races (05:06), what did Sir Jackie Stewart say to Roger Federer? (30:47) and debate the success of LL Cool J's pre-race introduction (39:04).

### Race Review: Miami Grand Prix

- Matt Baker hosts the Sky Sports F1 podcast alongside Martin Brundle, Natalie Pinkham, and Karun Chandhok.
- The panel discusses the recently concluded Miami Grand Prix, with varying opinions on the race.
- Martin Brundle found the race entertaining despite criticism, highlighting the overtakes and battles throughout the field.
- Natalie Pinkham coined the term "Miami Vice-stappen" to describe Max Verstappen's dominant performance.
- Karun Chandhok deemed the race as "decent," praising the strategic battle between Red Bull drivers and the midfield action.
- Matt Baker suggests a rule change to mandate the use of all three tire compounds during a race, promoting two-stop strategies.
- The panel acknowledges the lack of memorable races in recent times and emphasizes the need for more unpredictability and competition.

### Factors Contributing to Exciting Formula One Races

- Natalie Pinkham stresses the importance of jeopardy and unpredictability in creating compelling races.
- Karun Chandhok highlights the need for more competition among teams, particularly in the top positions.
- Martin Brundle attributes the lack of competition to Mercedes and Ferrari's struggles this season, contrasting it with previous seasons' multi-team battles.
- The panel discusses the impact of the new regulations, particularly the raised ride height, on the cars' ability to follow closely.

### Max Verstappen's Dominance and Sergio Perez's Challenge

- The panel agrees that Max Verstappen is currently in a dominant phase, with a well-rounded car and exceptional driving skills.
- Martin Brundle emphasizes the importance of Sergio Perez finishing second in races to maximize Red Bull's points haul.
- Natalie Pinkham believes Perez has improved this season but may need to find a weakness in Verstappen to consistently challenge him.
- The panel acknowledges that beating Verstappen is a challenging task, given his exceptional talent and the strength of the Red Bull car.

### McLaren's Struggles and Lando Norris' Situation

- The panel discusses McLaren's disappointing performance in Miami, contrasting it with their apparent progress in Baku.
- Martin Brundle highlights the team's financial and marketing strengths under Zac Brown's leadership.
- Natalie Pinkham praises Lando Norris' positive attitude despite the team's struggles, emphasizing the importance of maintaining morale.
- Karun Chandhok suggests that Daniel Ricciardo may be in a favorable position, receiving a substantial salary while taking time off to reassess his future.
- The panel acknowledges Oscar Piastri's solid performances despite the team's struggles, suggesting that he is learning valuable lessons away from the spotlight.

# Miami Grand Prix Podcast Episode Summary:

## Key Discussion Points:

- Should all three tire compounds be used during different races?
- What did Sir Jackie Stewart say to Roger Federer?
- Debate on the success of LL Cool J's pre-race introduction.

## Detailed Discussion:

### Tire Compounds:

- The podcast team discusses whether it would be beneficial to mandate the use of all three tire compounds during different races.
- This would add an extra layer of strategy and unpredictability to the races.
- However, it could also lead to more tire-related incidents and safety concerns.

### Jackie Stewart and Roger Federer:

- Martin Brundle shares an amusing anecdote about an encounter between Sir Jackie Stewart and Roger Federer on the grid before the race.
- Stewart, known for his charm and wit, managed to convince Federer to speak to him for an interview, despite the tight schedule and security protocols.
- The incident highlights Stewart's charisma and his ability to connect with people from all walks of life.

### LL Cool J's Pre-Race Introduction:

- The team debates the effectiveness of LL Cool J's pre-race introduction, which featured a musical performance and a speech.
- Some drivers expressed mixed feelings about the show, with George Russell calling it distracting and unnecessary.
- Others, like Lewis Hamilton, appreciated the effort to make the pre-race show more entertaining and engaging for fans.

### Gridwalks:

- The podcasters discuss the recent trend of gridwalks, where reporters interview drivers on the grid just before the race.
- Some drivers have expressed concerns that the gridwalks are disruptive and take away from their focus.
- However, others see it as a valuable opportunity to connect with fans and promote the sport.

### Off-Track Development:

- The team considers whether the increased number of races in the Formula One calendar is hindering teams' ability to develop their cars.
- The cost cap introduced in Formula One has also had a significant impact on teams' development budgets.
- Some teams have struggled to keep up with the pace of development, leading to a wider performance gap between the top teams and the rest of the field.

### Fernando Alonso's Chances of Winning:

- The podcasters discuss Fernando Alonso's impressive performance in the Miami Grand Prix, where he finished on the podium.
- Alonso has been in excellent form this season and is seen as a potential contender for race wins.
- The team analyzes Alonso's strengths and weaknesses and assesses his chances of securing his elusive 33rd Formula One victory.

## Conclusion:

- The podcast team wraps up the discussion with a brief summary of the key points and takeaways from the episode.
- They also tease the upcoming triple-header of races and express their anticipation for the exciting battles to come.