Bahrain — Max Verstappen and Lando Norris, longtime friends and competitors, downplayed concerns about their relationship potentially suffering if they battle for the title in 2025.
The pair clashed on track last season, with notable incidents in Austria, Austin, and Mexico City. Despite these confrontations, they have consistently expressed mutual respect, often sharing a good rapport both on and off the track. However, some tensions did arise last year, especially after Norris criticized Verstappen’s race tactics.
During a press conference on the second day of preseason testing, the drivers were asked about their relationship heading into the new season. Verstappen, the reigning four-time world champion, responded with a grin, sarcastically brushing off earlier questions about his experience at the F1 75 Launch event.
“Yeah, it’s a terrible relationship,” Verstappen quipped. “We don’t get on anymore. It’s taken its toll. Big drama.”
Norris, the early favorite for the new season and sitting alongside Verstappen, quickly joined in the playful banter.
“We had a fight the other day in a local pub,” Norris joked.
Verstappen laughed, adding, “We had to get escorted [out]. I always say, you should see the other guy… but he still looks good, so, whatever!”
Shifting back to a more serious tone, Norris addressed the topic of their on-track battles.
“I think we both look forward to more of last year, more battles,” he said. “It won’t just be us; there will be others involved, which will make it more exciting for everyone. But I know it’s going to be tough, and not all the battles will go how either of us want, but we’re racers.”
Norris continued, “We get along well. We’ve always said that. I know people like to pick sides and point fingers, but we respect each other a lot. We’re looking forward to racing more this season.”
Verstappen, when asked for any final comments, grinned and said, “No, that’s beautifully said.”
