Formula 1 has grown massively in popularity in the United States in recent years. Celebrities and sportspersons are keen on attending at least of the three American races on the sport’s calendar. As such, it is no surprise that many popular figures are present at the Miami GP this weekend, including NBA star Jimmy Butler.
Butler was a special guest of the McLaren F1 team this weekend. The 34-year-old was spotted donning the Woking-based team’s kit in the paddock. Moreover, Jimmy Butler hung out with Lando Norris before the start of the sprint race in Miami.
McLaren’s official X account posted pictures of the two together. Lando Norris had a big smile on his face as he stood beside Jimmy Butler. Butler on the other hand, was more focused on his McLaren t-shirt. The word ‘Lando’ had been written right above the McLaren logo, perhaps by Norris himself.
Really working that papaya, @JimmyButler. 😉🧡#MiamiGP 🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/ptMVu9xMUl
— McLaren (@McLarenF1) May 4, 2024
Lando Norris and Jimmy Butler previously had an outing in McLaren supercar
The Miami GP was not the first time, Norris and Butler had shared a moment during a race weekend. Few years ago, the McLaren driver took the 34-year-old for a hot lap in a McLaren supercar. Jimmy Butler was afraid that Lando Norris would drive the car too fast and even prayed after sitting inside. All the while, the young Briton was smiling in amusement.
Jimmy Butler and Lando Norris (Via F1)This instance took place during the Canadian GP. Jimmy Butler got scared the moment Norris put his leg on the throttle. The 34-year-old even asked the McLaren driver to relax. However, Lando Norris was not in a mood to hear such pleas from his passenger. Throughout the lap, Butler expressed his concerns over the high speed of the car.
When Lando Norris took Jimmy Butler for a quick lap 😅
(via @F1) pic.twitter.com/bxK3lQQzft
— ESPN F1 (@ESPNF1) September 18, 2021
Ultimately, this hilarious incident further strengthened the bond between Butler and Norris. The two seem to like each other’s company. As such, it might be no surprise if Lando Norris decides to attend an NBA game in the future to support Jimmy Butler.
