Lando Norris: Max Verstappen’s departure from F1 would be a ‘loss for the sport’
Defending champion Lando Norris has stated that it would be “a loss” for Formula 1 if Max Verstappen departs the sport due to this year’s regulatory changes, although he is skeptical that his Red Bull competitor will leave at the end of the season.
Verstappen has expressed his discontent with the modifications to F1’s engine regulations this year, describing the new rules as “anti-racing” and likening the increase in overtaking to a Mario Kart experience.
After the recent Japanese Grand Prix, Verstappen mentioned that he was contemplating retirement at the end of the year, as he no longer finds enjoyment in driving the latest generation of vehicles.
Norris, who narrowly secured the title over Verstappen by two points last year, remarked that the departure of the four-time champion would be detrimental for both the sport and the drivers aspiring to compete against the elite in the field.
“Max has earned the freedom to pursue whatever he desires; he’s won four championships and has always been candid about his opinions, regardless of whether others agree or disagree,” Norris stated.
“He remains true to himself, and I believe that is a commendable way to approach life. Therefore, it would be unfortunate for the sport if that were to occur, as he is likely one of the finest drivers ever seen in Formula One.
“It would be regrettable for us [the drivers]βdespite the fact that he makes our lives quite challenging at times, he is always enjoyable to race against, and it’s exciting to compete with someone who has won four championships.
“You always aspire to race against the best in the world, and he undoubtedly qualifies as one of them.”
However, Norris expressed his belief that Verstappen will not retire while the chance of securing a fifth title remains viable.
“I just noticed he mentioned wanting to win a fifth world championship at the moment, so Iβm confident he will remain longer than some might expect,” Norris added.
In addition to his responsibilities with Red Bull Racing in F1, Verstappen will participate in this year’s NΓΌrburgring 24 Hours, driving a Mercedes AMG GT3 car for his own team, Verstappen Racing.
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Norris mentioned that if Verstappen does exit F1, he would take pleasure in watching his former rival compete in other racing series.
“It would be a loss for the sport, but honestly, I also enjoy watching GT races on the weekends, and if he provides me with an opportunity to watch him in other categories, that would be a positive for me,” he said. “It would be unfortunate, but he has also driven some of the finest cars available.
“I think it’s relative for the audience, as when you see the newcomers who are experiencing their first year in Formula One, everyone seems to think these cars are amazing. Those who have driven last year’s models and some of the earlier ones have a basis for comparison, and itβs all somewhat relative for everyone, but hopefully, conditions will improve.”
Norris’ McLaren teammate, Oscar Piastri, also commented that Verstappen’s departure from F1 would be a setback for the sport.
“It would be unfortunate if that were to happen,” Piastri stated. “Clearly, the Red Bull does not appear to be the most competitive car at this time, but I believe the regulations are being refined, although they require significant adjustments and are certainly more intricate. Therefore, it would be a loss for the sport to lose Max, especially at this stage of his career.
“I think it would be a substantial loss for the sport overall; as drivers, we want to compete against the best and test ourselves against the top. Max has demonstrated his caliber over the past decade, and particularly in the last five or six years, he has set the standard, so it would be quite disappointing for everyone and certainly not a favorable situation.”
Source: espn.com
