P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Norris: smart thinking not friendship behind Verstappen F1 defence approach
Lando Norris has addressed criticism that he treats Max Verstappen differently on the track due to their friendship. He argues that his choice of defensive tactics varies depending on the driver and the situation. Norris believes that there was no gain in being ultra tough with his defence against Verstappen because the Red Bull driver was simply too quick and had better tyre degradation. He explains that racing hard against a rival who is almost certain to pass you achieves nothing and can actually harm your own race. Norris emphasizes that his friendship with Verstappen actually makes him want to be more forceful and put on a better defense.
