Lando Norris slams Max Verstappen after chaotic race, says he's “not racing smart” and "ruined his own race"

TOI Sports Desk / TIMESOFINDIA.COM / May 5, 2025, 07:02 IST

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Lando Norris criticized Max Verstappen's aggressive and overly defensive tactics at the Miami Grand Prix, which ultimately ruined Verstappen's race. Norris, despite an early setback, recovered to finish second behind Oscar Piastri, who dominated the race. The stewards didn't investigate their on-track incident, but Norris's strong performance moved him to second in the drivers' standings.

Lando Norris slams Max Verstappen after chaotic race, says he's “not racing smart” and "ruined his own race"

Lando Norris criticizes Max Verstappen's risky driving after Miami GP clash (Credit: Getty Images)

The Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix turned into a dramatic showdown early on, as Lando Norris didn’t hold back in criticizing Max Verstappen’s aggressive tactics. The McLaren driver slammed Verstappen for his overly defensive approach, which not only disrupted Norris’ race but also proved costly for the Dutchman himself.

Lando Norris points fingers at Max Verstappen’s flawed approach and lack of race awareness

In a tense opening-lap battle, Max Verstappen and Lando Norris tangled in a move that forced both cars off track. The incident saw Norris drop to sixth before launching a commendable comeback to claim second place. Verstappen, however, saw his race unravel as he slipped further behind and eventually finished a staggering 40 seconds behind race-winner Oscar Piastri.

"[Max was] fighting hard. It's up to him to do that. He's ruined his own race. He's not racing very smart," Norris bluntly stated after the race, clearly frustrated by what he saw as an unnecessary and reckless defense from the Red Bull ace.
The stewards chose not to investigate the incident, but the on-track dynamics told the story. Despite Norris later passing Verstappen in a bold move, both drivers again went off the racing line — a moment that added more intensity to the race narrative.
While Verstappen’s gamble backfired, Norris focused on damage control and showed his pace throughout the race. With Piastri dominating at the front to claim his third consecutive win, Norris was left chasing shadows. Still, he made a valiant attempt to close the gap.
“I gave it a good shot when I got into second place and there was a long way to go,” Norris shared. “I only probably stopped pushing really in the last four or five laps… I kept belief during the whole race, but Oscar’s driving. He’s quick to catch but it always pretty much going to be impossible.”
Norris is now at second position following Oscar Piastri in the drivers' standings. While Miami didn’t offer him a win, his performance and composure under pressure may prove crucial as the championship battle tightens.
Also Read: Oscar Piastri claims fourth victory of season with commanding win at F1 Miami Grand Prix

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TOI Sports Desk

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