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Does Verstappen resent Norris' 'lucky' remark? 'It's frustration'
Starting from P17, Max Verstappen put down a statement victory at Interlagos that all but secured his world title. However, following the race, Lando Norris pointed to the fact that the Dutchman was rather lucky with a red flag caused Franco Colapinto, something he since cleared up. Verstappen does not blame the McLaren driver eaither.
Verstappen understands Norris' post-GP interview
While Verstappen earned 26 points on the Sunday, starting from pole position, Norris finished in sixth position that day. After the race, Norris talked about a lucky Verstappen, as he was yet to make a pit stop when the red flag waved. The Dutchman can understand Norris' comments. "Of course you have an interview like that just after a race, where of course he also got a mental blow. Where of course he could have taken the championship to his own hands, it was turned around in a moment," Verstappen told Viaplay.
The four-time world champion also explained that as adrenaline is still running high, these interviews are hardly representative in these situations. "I know Lando and at that moment he is very disappointed with himself. Then, of course, you immediately get a question like that. Then you just shouldn't have had a camera in front of you for a moment."
"I know Lando is just a good person. He doesn't mean that at that moment. He is just very disappointed and then you get that question and then you answer immediately, because you are frustrated. I don't take that very seriously," Verstappen continued.
Verstappen confirmed that he and Norris are still friends. Asked about their friendship, he answered that it is "Totally good." According to the Dutchman, the fight for the championship and many tough battles did not influence their relationship off the track. "Not to my knowledge to be honest. We see each other. I had him on the phone just yesterday."
He concluded with saying these interviews are part of Formula 1. "That's in our sport. Helmet off and either you are very happy or frustrated with certain situations. Then of course you can say certain things," Verstappen concluded.
This article was written in collaboration with Sandy van Wijngaarden
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