If Lando Norris wants to dethrone Max Verstappen, he’s going to need more than just raw speed—he’s going to need to fight like a champion. That’s the blunt assessment from Martin Brundle, who believes the McLaren driver must become far more aggressive if he hopes to end Verstappen’s reign over Formula 1.
The 2024 season has positioned Norris as a true title contender, but as seen in past seasons, talent alone isn’t enough to break Verstappen’s stranglehold on the sport. Brundle believes Norris needs to adopt a harder, more ruthless racing style—because Verstappen won’t give him an inch.
Brundle’s brutal advice: “Elbows out won’t be enough”
Brundle, a seasoned F1 analyst and former driver, didn’t mince words when discussing what it will take for Norris to challenge Verstappen in wheel-to-wheel combat.
“I think Lando knows how to lead from the front now. I think he probably believes he can win a World Championship. He’ll have to get his elbows out and get some razorblades on those elbows in some wheel-to-wheel combat with Max.”
It’s a stark reality check for Norris, who has impressed with his pace, racecraft, and consistency, but has yet to show the cutthroat edge required to take down Verstappen in a head-to-head fight.
Brundle’s comments highlight a key factor in Verstappen’s continued dominance—his relentless aggression. Since the start of F1’s ground-effect era in 2022, Verstappen has turned the sport into his personal playground, winning four consecutive World Championships with Red Bull’s unmatched RB machines.
“That’s clear, as everybody has to because that’s how Max goes racing. He’s tough, and that’s why he’s won the last four World Championships.”
Can Norris step up to Verstappen’s level?
No one has ever had an easy fight against Verstappen. The Dutchman is known for his unyielding racecraft, making every overtake a battle and every defensive maneuver a statement.
For Norris, the challenge is clear: If he wants to be more than just a title hopeful, he needs to fight Verstappen like a true rival—no hesitation, no second-guessing, no backing down.
The McLaren driver himself knows that 2024 is his best chance yet. With a competitive car and a rapidly growing confidence, Norris is closer than ever to the top. But Brundle’s message is clear—being fast isn’t enough. Being fearless is.
The battle for F1 supremacy is heating up, and if Norris truly wants to challenge Verstappen, he might have to embrace a whole new level of aggression.
Will he rise to the occasion, or will Verstappen continue to rule unchallenged? The 2024 season will have the answers.
