Lando Norris dismisses claim Max Verstappen would win 2024 F1 championship in a McLaren

Lando Norris has rejected Max Verstappen’s bold assertion that he could have clinched the 2024 Formula 1 World Championship in a McLaren. Verstappen, who secured his fourth consecutive title with two races to spare after the Las Vegas Grand Prix, made the comment as he reflected on his dominant season. Although Verstappen has dominated with Red Bull, Norris believes that McLaren’s performance is not comparable to the one he has achieved with the reigning champions.

Verstappen’s Confidence Fuels Debate

Verstappen’s remarks came after clinching the title in Las Vegas. Speaking to Dutch media outlet De Telegraaf, the Red Bull driver said:

“Would I have become champion in the McLaren? Yes! And much earlier too.”

His comment was likely a response to those who believe his success is primarily due to Red Bull’s dominance in recent seasons. Verstappen has often been criticized for only being able to win when he has the fastest car, a claim he feels compelled to prove wrong. “If I don’t get credit for this now, then I don’t know what else I can do,” Verstappen stated. However, his claim sparked an immediate reaction from Norris, who didn’t mince words when addressing the situation.

Norris Responds with Humor and Confidence

Ahead of the Qatar Grand Prix, Norris was asked about Verstappen’s comments, and he quickly brushed them off. With a grin, he remarked:

“He should start in comedy or something! He can say whatever he wants.”

The McLaren driver, who is currently in the hunt for the Constructors’ Championship, went further to explain his stance:

“Of course, I completely disagree. He’s good, but he’s not right.”

Norris’s response is no surprise, given the competitive nature of both drivers. With McLaren emerging as one of the top teams this season, Norris certainly believes that if Red Bull wasn’t part of the equation, McLaren, and even himself, would be fighting for the title. He humorously added:

“If there was no Red Bull, yeah, even I could have won if Max wasn’t in a Red Bull. I would have won the championship!”

While Norris admitted to respecting Verstappen’s talent, he clearly doesn’t believe that the Dutchman’s championship would have been achieved with a different car. Norris’s remarks underscore the different contexts in which both drivers operate: Verstappen’s dominance in a consistently strong Red Bull, and Norris’s rise in a rapidly improving McLaren.

A Friendships Amid Rivalries

Despite the on-track rivalry, Norris emphasized that his relationship with Verstappen remains strong. The two have been friends off-track for several years, and while their clashes have been intense, Norris made it clear that their bond remains unaffected.

“There were some tough moments, but we are still good friends,” he said. “I still have a lot of respect for him and all he’s done.”

McLaren’s Ambitious Championship Push

As McLaren heads into the Qatar Grand Prix, the team is eyeing a potential Constructors’ Championship victory. Currently leading Ferrari by 24 points, McLaren is in a strong position, but Norris believes Mercedes could be the team to beat in Qatar. Reflecting on their strong performance in 2023, Norris said:

“Mercedes were very quick here last year, so they are definitely favourites this weekend.”

Despite McLaren’s impressive form, Norris acknowledged that Mercedes and Ferrari have found their rhythm, making the final races even more unpredictable.

Conclusion

While Verstappen’s dominant Red Bull has made him a force to be reckoned with, Norris’s rejection of his claims highlights the competitive spirit between the two drivers. McLaren’s rise this season, led by Norris, suggests that the future of F1 is as much about team development as individual brilliance. Fans are sure to be treated to a thrilling conclusion to the season, with both drivers vying for their place in F1 history. The Qatar Grand Prix could prove crucial in McLaren’s bid for the Constructors’ Championship, but Norris remains focused on doing everything to finish the season strong.