Max Verstappen Prioritizes Relationship with Lando Norris
Max Verstappen recently opened up about his focus following the clash with Lando Norris in Austria, highlighting that his main concern was safeguarding their relationship rather than dwelling on who was right or wrong in the incident.
During the race at the Red Bull Ring, Norris was pushing to overtake Verstappen for the lead but encountered a robust defense from the Dutch driver, resulting in contact between the two cars and punctures for both. Norris expressed his disappointment in not receiving what he considered a fair fight and expected an apology from Verstappen. McLaren team principal Andrea Stella also criticized Verstappen’s defensive maneuvers and the leniency shown by the FIA.
Verstappen, however, dismissed the criticism, stating, „I don’t give a s**t about that. I go home, I live my life. Like I said, the only thing that I cared about was my relationship with Lando.”
Resolution at the British Grand Prix
At the British Grand Prix, Norris revealed that he no longer felt the need for an apology from Verstappen. The two drivers discussed the incident once emotions had subsided.
Verstappen emphasized the importance of his friendship with Norris, stating, „For me, the only thing that I cared about is maintaining my relationship with Lando, because we are great friends. After the race, I said we have to just let things cool down because emotions run high.”
Reflecting on the incident, Verstappen and Norris acknowledged that their battle was intense but ultimately enjoyable. They recognized the minor contact that had major consequences for both of them, particularly for Norris due to the puncture. Verstappen highlighted their history of competitive racing, both in Formula 1 and online competitions, underscoring the significance of such battles for the sport.
Verstappen concluded, „Let’s calm and let things cool off a bit, look at the footage.” This approach reflects his commitment to preserving his relationship with Norris and continuing to engage in competitive racing that benefits Formula 1 as a whole.
Relația dintre Verstappen și Norris în Formula 1
Max Verstappen și Lando Norris au clarificat relația lor în cadrul competițiilor din Formula 1. Deși există unele aspecte ale pilotajului lui Verstappen pe care Norris consideră că ar trebui clarificate de către FIA, cei doi sunt de acord în mare parte în ceea ce privește bătălia pe circuit.
Verstappen a subliniat că ei au fost de acord în 99% din situații și că înțelegerea lor include faptul că nu sunt acolo pentru a provoca accidente unul altuia. Amândoi sunt de părere că este important să se respecte limitele și regulile, dar și să exploreze zonele gri ale competiției, pentru a deveni piloți de top.
Verstappen a menționat că au promis să nu-și schimbe abordările în ceea ce privește modul în care se întrec unul pe celălalt pe viitor. Cei doi sunt hotărâți să concureze la capacitate maximă, deoarece consideră că acest lucru este benefic atât pentru ei, cât și pentru spectacolul oferit de Formula 1.
