The tension in the Formula 1 world reached a boiling point after the Grand Prix of Belgium, when Lando Norris launched an unprecedented attack on Max Verstappen during a post-race interview. The normally quiet and diplomatic McLaren driver surprised everyone with his harsh words, aimed at the triple world champion.
“He has to stop complaining like a woman, it’s a shame to blame everything,” Norris said visibly frustrated in front of the cameras.
The statement came after Verstappen had criticized the FIA strategy during the race, in particular on the delay for rain and some decisions of the race management. According to Verstappen, he was disadvantaged, which led to loss of pace and position in crucial moments of the race.
Norris, who himself drove a strong race but eventually just next to the stage, seemed to have no understanding for Max’s comments. His reaction was picked up almost immediately by international media and caused great commotion on social media, where fans responded divided.
Five minutes after Norris’s interview, Max Verstappen gave a short but powerful reaction to the press, consisting of only seven words:
“I let my driving speak for myself.”
The calmness and self -confidence with which Verstappen expressed this sentence fiercely contrasted with the fierce swallow of Norris. Within a few moments the images went viral and Max’s words were quoted as “the perfect reaction” that neutralized the attack without further discussion.
A storm broke loose on social media. Fans of Verstappen praised his maturity and his ability to stay cool under pressure. However, many F1 followers criticized Norris for the use of sexist language and the personal attacks of a colleague.
An analyst of Sky Sports called the situation “an unwanted distraction in a sport that now needs respect and sportiness.”
So far, McLaren has not given an official commentary on the statement of their driver, but sources within the team reported that Norris was approached in his tone behind closed doors.
According to rumors, the FIA is considering talking to both drivers about the media obligations and the boundaries of public communication within sport.
What started as an intense racing weekend on the Spa circuit has now grown into a heated battle between two of the greatest talents of their generation. Whether this is a one -off incident or the start of a new rivalry will show in the coming races. One thing is certain: Formula 1 is anything but boring on it.
