Breaking: Lando Norris hits back at ‘comedian’ Max Verstappen over claims he wou…read more
Lando Norris hits back at ‘comedian’ Max Verstappen over claims he wou…read more
Lando Norris has responded dismissively to Max Verstappen’s recent comments suggesting the Dutch driver could have clinched a Formula 1 championship sooner if he had been driving a McLaren.
The exchange comes after Verstappen secured his fourth consecutive F1 world title at the Las Vegas Grand Prix last weekend. While Norris, 25, currently holds second place in the 2024 Driver Standings, he is mathematically unable to overtake Verstappen with just two races remaining in the season.
During post-race celebrations in Las Vegas, Verstappen, 27, addressed critics who argue his dominance stems primarily from Red Bull’s superior car. Speaking to Dutch outlet De Telegraaf, Verstappen emphasized that such criticism fuels his determination to perform better.
“Things like that only motivate me,” Verstappen stated. “If people are critical and think I can only win in the best car, I prove them wrong. If I don’t get credit for this now, I don’t know what else I can do. Would I have become champion in the McLaren? Yes! And much earlier, too.”
The reigning champion has outperformed Norris in 2024, securing eight race victories to Norris’s three. Despite these numbers, Norris firmly disagreed with Verstappen’s bold claim. In a media appearance on Thursday, Norris responded humorously, telling Sky Sports F1, “He [Verstappen] should start doing comedy or something. He can say whatever he wants, but I completely disagree, as I would. He’s good, but it’s not true.”
While defending his position, Norris also displayed humility, admitting he didn’t feel deserving of the championship this year.
“For most of the season, we’ve had a better car than Red Bull,” Norris acknowledged. “But when I’ve been winning, Max has been right there in second or third. When he’s winning, I’m further back in fifth or sixth. He’s been more consistent, and that makes the difference.”
The rivalry between the two drivers has been a highlight of the 2024 season, with Norris’s improved performances elevating McLaren’s competitiveness. However, Verstappen’s consistency and ability to capitalize on opportunities have kept him ahead.
As the season nears its conclusion, the verbal sparring adds an extra layer of intrigue to an already captivating battle between two of F1’s brightest stars. Fans will be watching closely to see if Norris can carry his momentum into 2025 and mount a more sustained challenge for the title.
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