In a recent turn of events, Lando Norris has been advised to shed his “victim” mentality in his ongoing rivalry with Max Verstappen. Former Formula 1 driver Juan Pablo Montoya has urged Norris to take a more aggressive approach, even suggesting that he might need to risk a collision with the Red Bull champion. Montoya’s comments highlight the rising tension between the two drivers, whose friendship has been tested by their fierce competition on the racetrack.
The dynamic between Norris and Verstappen has become increasingly controversial, particularly during their recent encounters at the United States Grand Prix. In Austin, while battling for third place, Norris found himself pushed wide by Verstappen, resulting in a maneuver that saw him exit the track. This incident led to a five-second penalty for Norris, ultimately costing him a podium finish as Verstappen claimed the third spot instead. Such clashes have not only affected their standings but have also sparked discussions about their racing ethics and strategies.
Adding to the drama, the two drivers faced off again at the Mexican Grand Prix, where Verstappen’s actions drew scrutiny. He received two ten-second penalties for his aggressive driving, which included forcing Norris off the track on multiple occasions. These incidents have intensified the scrutiny on Verstappen’s racing style, leading some to label him a “bully” on the circuit. As tensions escalate, Norris must navigate this rivalry carefully, balancing competitive spirit with the potential consequences of aggressive tactics.
Fans and analysts alike are closely watching how this rivalry unfolds. The potential for more dramatic encounters between these two drivers raises questions about sportsmanship in a high-stakes environment like Formula 1. Montoya’s encouragement for Norris to adopt a tougher stance might resonate with fans who are eager to see more action and less passivity in Norris’s approach to racing