How did the title fight affect the ‘Norris-Verstappen friendship’?

Lando Norris has shared his views on whether his friendship with Max Verstappen has been affected by the championship battle.

Lando Norris and Max Verstappen have been known to have a good relationship in the past, but their intense battles in the 2024 season have raised questions about whether that relationship will continue.

During an interview with Will Buxton on F1 TV’s Pre-Race Show in Sao Paulo, Norris was asked if he could distinguish between his off-track self and his on-track self.

“I don’t know, I’m undecided about that,” said the McLaren driver.

“I think in some ways, how a person can be in person and how they can get along with people can be very different to how they are on the track. I think the track and the paddock are two very different worlds.”

“Obviously this is the first time I’ve been in a situation like this and time will tell how it will develop.”

“For now, I still respect Max and I think he respects me. But maybe you’ll have to ask that question again at the end of the year!” he replied.

Commenting on the on-track battles between him and Verstappen so far in the 2024 season, Norris said: “Verstappen is doing what he thinks is best on track, which is fair.”

“He’s doing everything he can to keep me behind in the championship because he and Red Bull are under pressure.”

“We passed them in the championship, even Ferrari did. The more we can put them under pressure, the more likely they are to make these kinds of mistakes.”