Lando Norris and Max Verstappen share a bond off the track, but their camaraderie might be on the verge of transformation.
Norris conceded that his relationship with Verstappen could evolve as he continues to challenge the reigning world champion for victories. Their dynamic shifted when Norris clinched his first Grand Prix triumph in Miami, dethroning Verstappen in the process.
The duo has enjoyed a close friendship, often spending downtime together outside the Formula 1 circuit and openly expressing admiration for each other’s racing skills.
However, McLaren’s recent surge, evidenced by ten upgrades in Miami, suggests a potential shift in the balance of power at the forefront of the grid.
During the Miami race, Norris seized the opportunity presented by a mid-race safety car, catapulting ahead of Verstappen and securing a comfortable lead to clinch victory.
As Norris gears up for the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, a race where he typically excels, the 24-year-old has his sights set on consecutive wins. Should he continue to chip away at Verstappen’s championship lead, the strain on their friendship could become apparent.
Reflecting on this possibility in an interview with Sky Sports F1’s Craig Slater, Norris acknowledged the likelihood of change, stating, “I’m sure it will. Like, I don’t want to say it in a bad way. We have respect for one another, we get along. We’re not best friends. We don’t text each other every day, that kind of thing.
“But we just have a lot of respect from him to me and me back to him. So I look forward to it.
“I want to challenge him, I want to race against him, I want to battle because I think he’s one of the best drivers ever in Formula One, so if I can prove myself against him, I’m proving myself against one of the best, and that’s exactly what I want to do.”
