P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Lando Norris disagrees with the notion that his relationship with Max Verstappen adversely impacts his ability to race the Red Bull driver as their championship battle looks set to head down to the wire.
Lando Norris has clarified that his friendship with Max Verstappen does not affect his racing mindset, stating that he “hates everyone” once he puts on his helmet. The two are currently competing for the F1 drivers’ championship, with only 52 points separating them and the competition expected to intensify until the season finale in Abu Dhabi. Despite initial concerns about their relationship impacting Norris’s performance, he has proven capable of battling Verstappen on equal terms. Norris emphasizes that his feelings towards competitors are the same on the track, regardless of any friendships off the track. The McLaren driver’s victories have often come with Verstappen finishing second, showcasing his competitive spirit even against his friends. Norris believes that his friendship with Verstappen actually motivates him further to strive for victory, contradicting the common perception that it could soften his racing approach.
