Lando Norris Faces Criticism Over Max Verstappen Clash: Did He Back Down Too Easily?
The dramatic Austrian Grand Prix of 2024 became a flashpoint in Formula 1, with Lando Norris and Max Verstappen’s collision sparking debate across the racing world. This fierce battle at Turn 3 showcased McLaren’s resurgence, but also revealed cracks in Norris’s handling of intense on-track rivalries. Lando Norris should’ve stood up for himself instead of falling back in line with Max Verstappen after his clash with the Red Bull driver at last year’s Austrian Grand Prix, says Anthony Davidson.
Norris and Verstappen: A Collision That Shook the Grid
As McLaren closed the gap on Red Bull in 2024, Norris found himself in heated contention for both the Constructors’ and Drivers’ Championships. During the Austrian GP, Norris launched several bold attempts to overtake Verstappen, culminating in a collision with just eight laps remaining.
Norris retired due to the contact, while Verstappen managed a fifth-place finish despite a 10-second penalty for causing the crash. Initially, Norris blasted Verstappen as “reckless” and “desperate,” citing the Dutchman’s aggressive defense as crossing the line of fair play.
A Surprising Change of Tune
However, Norris surprised fans by softening his stance just days later, saying:
“He doesn’t need to apologise… It was good racing, at times close to the edge. We’ve spoken about it and are happy to move forward.”
This reversal disappointed former drivers and fans alike. Anthony Davidson, a Sky F1 pundit, expressed frustration, saying:
“We wanted to see him stick up for himself… But it felt like he kind of got back in line with what Max had been saying.”
Standing Up to Verstappen: Lessons from Russell
In contrast to Norris, George Russell showcased a firmer stance against Verstappen during the Qatar Grand Prix incident. After Verstappen received a grid penalty, Russell openly criticized the reigning champion for trying to manipulate the stewards, saying:
“He’s crossed a line, and I’m not going to accept it… Someone has to stand up to him.”
Russell’s defiance continued throughout the season, even refusing to sit next to Verstappen at the end-of-year drivers’ dinner. This refusal to back down earned praise from Nico Rosberg, the 2016 World Champion, who said:
“This is George stepping up to Max, which is great to see. It’s different from Lando, who often praises Max after a few days.”
What This Means for Norris and the Future
While Norris’s talent is undeniable, his handling of confrontations with top-tier rivals like Verstappen has raised questions. In high-stakes battles, standing firm can be as critical as on-track performance. As McLaren continues to compete at the top level, Norris’s ability to balance diplomacy with assertiveness will be key to his championship aspirations.
For now, the 2025 season offers a fresh start and an opportunity for Norris to show he’s ready to challenge Verstappen and other titans head-on—not just on the track, but in the psychological game that defines modern Formula 1.
