Helmut Marko claims Max Verstappen and Lando Norris will ‘meet for a chat’ over Austrian GP clash

The Austrian GP was the first time Max Verstappen and Lando Norris were able to battle each other on raw pace. Their fight was monumental as both drivers pushed each other to the limit to get track position. However, this fight ended with a collision and left both camps angry at each other. To solve the disputes, Helmut Marko revealed that both the Dutchman and Norris would meet each other for a chat over their clash in Spielberg.

Lando Norris and Max Verstappen have one of the most famous friendships in F1. The two drivers are often found having fun in their time away from the race track. In a similar path, the reigning champion was one of the first drivers to have congratulated the young Brit on his first win in Miami. However, in Austria, this friendship seemingly reached its breaking point as both drivers got their elbows out in an attempt to get the victory.

Subsequently, Norris shared an anger-charged message towards Verstappen on the radio and claimed that his Dutch rival needs to be accountable for his mistakes.

It was horrible the way [Lando]Norris acted on the radio. But these things happen and I would tick it off as a racing accident, although Norris was more likely the one who crossed the line. Statements from Norris that Max[Verstappen] should apologise are not very helpful. But they will meet up for a chat.

Helmut Marko said in an interview with OE24

However, Helmut Marko lamented Norris’ stance and claimed that he was the one who should be held accountable for the consequences. He then revealed that the long-time friends would have a conversation regarding their crash and would likely sort out things between themselves.

Helmut Marko is confident Red Bull would be ‘up there’ with their engine in 2026

While this is not the first time a friendship might turn into a rivalry, Verstappen and Co. have been dominating since 2022. To continue on this trend of winning into 2026, Red Bull would have to leapfrog numerous challenges that seem quite tough for a first-time engine manufacturer.

Amidst speculations regarding Red Bull’s engine project, the Austrian claimed they would be at the sharp end of the spectrum.

Our engine has to work or get working. So many factors come into play, like the fuel, the battery, etc. It will be exciting to see who will really be at the front. In terms of horsepower, we will definitely be there.

Helmut Marko said in an interview with OE24

The 80-year-old asserted they had to make their powertrain work and had no other option. He then explained that each powertrain has multiple aspects, and they need to ensure that each division works in harmony to continue their reign in F1.

Despite his optimism, the 2026 regulations are often reckoned as the world of the unknown. Thus, no team can lay back as the deadline comes closer with every passing race.

In case you missed it:

• Christian Horner claims ‘difficult’ to judge’ Sergio Perez’s Austrian GP due to ‘big hole in sidepod’
• Crashgate mastermind Flavio Briatore claims Alpine “will do everything” to sign Carlos Sainz

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