Verstappen jokes to Norris: 'Are you? A great driver?'
F1 News
- GPblog.com
Lando Norris had the best qualifying of his Formula 1 career on Saturday and was on the front row of the grid next to Max Verstappen on Sunday. The McLaren driver was able to enjoy his second spot until the 20th lap, when he was overtaken by Lewis Hamilton.
Great driver
Shortly after the overtake, Hamilton came on the on-board radio to praise Norris. "Such a great driver, Lando," said the seven-time world champion. During the post-race press conference, this moment is cited by Autosport's Alex Kalinauckas. He asked for a reaction from the Briton about the praise from his fellow countryman.
Before Norris can answer, however, Verstappen interjects. "Are you? A great driver?", jokes the Dutchman. "Apparently!", Norris responded, to which Verstappen replied, "I didn't know that man!"
Learning from Hamilton
Then came a more serious answer. "Thanks. I don't know what to say," Norris is modest. "It wasn't easy. Both Mercedes were faster in the race, which was no surprise, so I was happy to hold him off for so long. It was the first time I really raced against him and then you really learn how he drives and how he races."
Anyway, Norris was pleased to be able to compete at the front in Austria. "It was cool, it's a good feeling to not only race against Lewis, but also against Valtteri [Bottas], Max and Sergio [Perez]. It gives a good feeling to be in that group and fight for a podium spot. Our pace was just really good."