Max Verstappen claims Lando Norris’ ’emotions different’ from his over fighting for wins in F1

Max Verstappen highlighted that Lando Norris had a different mindset during their close battle at the Austrian GP.

Max Verstappen claims Lando Norris’ ’emotions different’ from his over fighting for wins in F1

Lando Norris and Max Verstappen (via IMAGO)

Max Verstappen and Lando Norris found themselves in a close battle for victory at the Austrian GP. However, in this thrilling contest, the two drivers ended up making contact and ruined any chances of a good result. Now, the reigning world champion has highlighted the difference in mindset in such a situation.

Lando Norris was far from happy after the race in Austria. The British driver even claimed that his friendship with Verstappen could be at risk. Although, Norris has backtracked from this statement recently. Max Verstappen pointed out that while he was fighting for his 62nd F1 win, his counterpart was competing for his second ever victory in the sport.

You also have to realize he's fighting for his second potential win, I'm fighting for my 62nd win.
Max Verstappen said
YouTube video

Subsequently, Max Verstappen believed that it was natural to have different emotions during such a situation. The reigning world champion highlighted that he used to have such an approach when he was battling for his first few victories at the pinnacle of motorsport.

FS Video
I think naturally, your emotions are a little bit different, because I know that for myself when I was fighting for these first wins in F1.
Max Verstappen explained

Max Verstappen doesn’t want to ‘ruin’ friendship with Lando Norris

Verstappen and Norris are believed to be close friends in the F1 paddock. The two drivers often fly together or play paddle. However, many fans were concerned that this relationship could come to an end if the two continue to have such close battles over the course of the 2024 season.

Lando Norris and Max Verstappen
Lando Norris and Max Verstappen (via IMAGO)

Max Verstappen affirmed that he has always gone well with the Briton. The Dutch driver claimed that despite fighting for wins against each other this year, he does not want to ruin his friendship with Lando Norris. As Verstappen reckoned that their friendship does not deserve such an outcome.

I get on really well with Lando. We are fighting naturally for wins this year. And of course, I don't want that to ruin the friendship off-track as well, because that's definitely not what it deserves.
Max Verstappen stated

Certainly, it appears that things between Verstappen and Norris have calmed down since the Austrian GP weekend. However, it will be interesting to see how the two approach one another on-track at the British GP this weekend.

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