Norris Takes Back 'Frustrated' Austrian GP Post-Race Comments About Verstappen

Thursday, 04 July 2024 at 16:54

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McLaren Racing driver Lando Norris discussed the aftermath of the incident that resulted in his retirement during the 2024 Austrian Grand Prix.

The 24-year-old McLaren F1 driver showed his frustration with what happened right after the 11th round of the season at Red Bull Ring.

He felt like Max Verstappen—whom he was fighting—was too "desperate" and "aggressive." He also asserted that he expected an apology from the Dutchman, or else he would lose his respect.

Just a week later, the Papaya driver sat on the couch with four other drivers during the FIA press conference ahead of the British Grand Prix. When asked how he saw the whole incident now that he had time to analyze it thoroughly and also talk to Verstappen, Norris said:

"Honestly, I don't think he needed to apologize; I think some of the things I said in the pen post-race were just because I was frustrated at the time."

"I had a lot of adrenaline, a lot of emotions, and I probably said some things that I didn't necessarily believe in; it was tough."

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It isn't unusual for F1 drivers to retract statements made right after the race with a ton of adrenaline flowing through them. Looking back at it, the 24-year-old driver also admitted the collision was "pathetic."

"It was a pretty pathetic incident in terms of what ended both of our races; it wasn't an obvious bit of contact, it was probably one of the smallest bits of contact that you could have, but it was a pretty terrible consequence for both of us, especially for myself."

In a different interview, Norris also explained he was so passionate about the incident because he was fighting for one of his first career victories, whereas Verstappen didn't really care that much because he was fighting for his 62nd. He added:

"He doesn't need to apologize, and I don't expect an apology from him; I don't think he should apologize."

"It was good racing, and maybe you are very close to the edge, but we've spoken about it, and we're both happy to go racing again."