Max Verstappen blames ‘idiots’ on social media over rumored tensions with Lando Norris
Max Verstappen and Lando Norris were brutally mocked by the fans for their on-track tussles during the 2024 F1 season.
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Lando Norris and Max Verstappen (via IMAGO)
The 2024 season was an unexpected rollercoaster for both fans and drivers. Lando Norris emerged as the antagonist to Max Verstappen‘s mission of winning four drivers’ titles. However, their on-track matters escalated in the background on social media. This led Verstappen to lash out at the people on social media for creating a ruckus and deeming them to be ‘idiots’.
Max Verstappen had seven wins in the first half of the season. Despite him amassing a lead in the drivers’ standings, the threat from Lando Norris taking over the championship emerged as McLaren pounced past Red Bull in performance. This left the Dutchman with a huge task to defend his lead.
Though Verstappen admitted that he went over the line to achieve this objective sometimes, he was a racing driver and knew the gravity of the situation. However, their on-track clashes led to a battle between the two drivers’ fanbases. This was viewed with grim eyes by the 27-year-old, who was unhappy with the F1 fandom on social media.
People always make it really a lot worse on social media. There are a lot of idiots on that platform that always have something to say, something to complain about. There are a lot of positive people, but also some proper idiots. I think it’s better just to ignore all of that.
Max Verstappen said on the Talking Bull podcast
As Verstappen bashed the abusive nature of social media, it showed a way larger picture that F1 has to contend with. The sport’s growing fanbase has been the primary reason for its impressive trajectory. But, if fans do not use the social media platforms appropriately, the sport’s image could be tarnished.
Max Verstappen asserted on track battles have no effect on his friendship with Lando Norris
While the reigning champion was critical of the fan’s behavior, he also dismissed any concerns regarding his relationship with Norris. He and the Briton have been long-time friends and their bond has gone through many ups and downs throughout their time in F1.
Subsequently, the 27-year-old asserted that he and Norris still have a great bond. While some resentment is still normal, their friendship is not tainted by any of their actions on track or statements against each other.
Lando and I, we got on very well. Of course, at times it got a bit tense on track but off the track, that shouldn’t matter. We always try to do the best we can on track to get the best possible result.
Max Verstappen said on the Talking Bulls podcast
However, a major task of their friendship’s resilience would come next year. The pair is expected to fight for the world championship as McLaren and Red Bull are expected to remain the lead teams. Thus, the 2024 season could have been the trailer for a much bigger developing rivalry.
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Geetansh Pasricha
(742 Articles Published)