Lando Norris Challenges Max Verstappen: “Come and Try Our Car Anytime”
In the midst of a heated exchange of words following Max Verstappen’s comments at Suzuka, the McLaren drivers continue to spar with the Dutch champion. It all began with remarks made by Verstappen to Dutch journalists after his surprising victory at Suzuka, where he beat the McLaren drivers Norris and Piastri. The four-time champion took a dig at his rivals, suggesting that he would easily win the race if he were behind the wheel of the MCL39.
Oscar Piastri attempted to avoid being drawn into the provocation, brushing it off as just a joke. However, Verstappen doubled down, emphasizing that his statement was not a joke but an honest response to a question posed to him. Far from over, the saga continues.
In a sharp retort to Verstappen, his friend-rival Lando Norris seemed particularly stung by the Hasselt native’s comments. Speaking to journalists in Sakhir, the English driver – currently leading the Championship with a one-point margin over Verstappen – invited the #1 to test his McLaren. “I don’t care,” remarked Norris, “everyone can say and believe what they want. I believe that both I and Oscar [Piastri] are good drivers. Maybe he’s better at some things, but not everything. I have a lot of respect for Max, but I also know that some of the things he says are not true. He can come and try our car every day if he wants, and I will be happy to see the disappointment on his face after he comes out.”
As tensions escalate, both drivers will be back on the track today for the free practice sessions, each with their own machine. The rivalry between Verstappen and the McLaren duo shows no signs of cooling down, promising more drama and excitement on the race track.
