WATCH: Charles Leclerc calls Lando Norris ‘b*stard’ on live TV during Spanish GP

The pair were involved in a playful interaction just before the hard race ahead of them

Charles Leclerc and Lando Norris(Credits: @Leclercdata on Twitter)

The Spanish Grand Prix qualifying was a contrasting set of events for McLaren and Ferrari drivers Lando Norris and Charles Leclerc. Norris put in some brilliant laps and secured himself a spot on the second row, qualifying P3. This is the best start McLaren has earned so far this season, which is a big positive as they seek to remain competitive in the midfield.

Charles Leclerc, on the other hand, had a calamitous session and will be subject to a pitlane start. Despite his dismal starting position, the Monegasque had high hopes during his interview with Sky Sports before the race. However, he was cheekily interrupted by Norris, who took a quick jab at the Ferrari driver’s groin.

Leclerc’s impulsive reaction resulted in him quickly exclaiming, aiiia…. b*stard–!”. He was promptly informed by his interviewer Mara Sangiorgio to refrain from using explicit language on live TV, for which the Ferrari star innocently apologized. Norris skulked away after his mischievous antic, something he has done to the likes of his former teammates Carlos Sainz and Daniel Ricciardo.

FS Video

the video is even funnier, his little “sorry” after mara scolded him ? pic.twitter.com/3OQj3Z6Orq
— leclerc data (@leclercdata) June 4, 2023

Norris is known for his lighthearted, playful shenanigans around the paddock, keeping it lively. He is adored by fans for his zesty personality off-track, but when behind the wheel, he is just as serious and competitive as the rest of his rivals.

The Spanish GP has not been optimal for either driver

Charles Leclerc's SF-23 (Credits: News18) — Charles Leclerc’s SF-23 (Credits: News18)

Regardless of their impish antics before the race, it hasn’t been forgiving to either driver. Charles Leclerc never seemed to get going throughout the race as he struggled for pace on his soft tire compound. His SF-23 has struggled to keep up with the likes of the Alpine of Pierre Gasly, as a point-scoring prospect looks bleak.

Lando Norris endured more significant heartbreak, as despite starting P3 alongside Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen, he made contact with the former going into turn 1, rendering his front wing damaged. After pitting on the first lap for repairs, he never seemed to recover from the loss of momentum, as he lost out on a golden opportunity to score points.

charles was called to box, asked for softs when xavi told him they wanted to go for hards. xavi told him they would do like he wants, but ferrari still put him on hards.

charles’ onboard: completely silent. ?#spanishGP pic.twitter.com/KLUc4ACMu1
— leclerc data (@leclercdata) June 4, 2023

Regardless, the progress McLaren has made is evident, as they finally look more competitive in the field, something they struggled to do all season thus far. Ferrari’s new upgrades were anticipated to help the Scuderia compete for podiums. However, they still have much work to do to catch up to Mercedes in their battle for the champagne celebrations.

The progress of both teams will be monitored closely going into the Canadian GP, and they will look to build on any improvement they have displayed in Spain and carry forward any momentum possible. After a dismal result at the Spanish GP, this will be no simple task; however, such is the unforgiving nature of Formula One.