One of the main narratives of the past Formula 1 season was the ongoing battle between Lando Norris and Max Verstappen. After his first victory at the Miami Grand Prix, the British driver made a determined effort to dethrone his Dutch rival. This put the friendship between the two drivers to the test on several occasions. However, as a new season approaches, Norris and Verstappen assure that their relationship has not cooled.
After his very first victory in Miami, Lando Norris wanted to seriously compete for the championship in 2024. McLaren seemed on track for the constructors’ title, and Norris became a formidable competitor for Verstappen. Despite his fierce fight, the Dutchman ultimately walked away with the trophy again. The rivalry seemed to slowly cause a rift between the two drivers, who had formed a close friendship over the past years. However, in the run-up to the 2025 season, there seems to be no drama.
‘Fought in a Bar’
During a press conference in Bahrain, the duo was asked about their relationship. “It’s terrible,” Max Verstappen joked immediately. “We can’t get along anymore. It has really taken its toll. Big drama. Big problems.” Lando Norris found it amusing and added, “We even had a fight in a bar recently. I started it.” Verstappen chimed in, “We had to be escorted out. Normally after a fight, you say, ‘You should see the other guy.’ But he (Norris) still looks good,” Verstappen said, laughing.
So, there’s absolutely no cooling of their friendship. The two can still laugh together. “Yes, it’s going well,” Norris then said seriously. “I think we’re both looking forward to more battles like last year. More drivers will probably play a role – it’s going to be very exciting. Sometimes things don’t go as you hoped, but we continue to respect each other.” When asked if he wanted to add anything, Verstappen dryly replied, “No, that’s well said.”
