Lando Norris has spoken out about his desire for cleaner, fairer racing in the closing rounds of the 2024 F1 season, emphasizing that any change in race conduct should come from Max Verstappen. In recent races, Norris and Verstappen’s battles have led to tense moments, with Verstappen receiving penalties for aggressive moves in the U.S. and Mexican Grands Prix. These incidents have intensified the scrutiny on Verstappen’s approach, as he fights to keep his championship lead amid rising tensions and time penalties. Norris’s perspective highlights a contrast in styles, as he emphasizes a cleaner approach while hinting that Verstappen’s tactics may require reassessment.
In discussing his racing philosophy, Norris reiterated his commitment to “clean, fair racing,” a standard he says he has upheld throughout his career. He pointedly remarked that any adjustments should be made by his rival, not him, as he has no intention of compromising his principles on the track. Norris has built his reputation on avoiding unnecessary clashes, especially important under F1’s cost cap rules, where damages have an added financial impact. According to Norris, this method not only helps preserve his car but also aligns with his values of responsible racing.
Norris expanded on his strategy, explaining that he frequently chooses to avoid potential crashes, even at the expense of a position. He noted that while this restraint might appear overly cautious to viewers, it is a calculated choice that keeps him competitive across a season. This approach, Norris implied, is not always visible to spectators, but it requires constant decision-making in the heat of competition. He hinted that, if necessary, he willingly sacrifices aggression for the sake of preserving his car and avoiding costly penalties.
Reflecting on the recent penalties awarded to Verstappen, Norris voiced his approval of the stewards’ judgments, expressing confidence in their decisions. He believes the majority of fans and F1 analysts agree that Verstappen’s infractions were justly penalized, reinforcing his stance that clean racing is essential. In Norris’s view, the stewarding decisions from the Mexico Grand Prix support his adherence to fair racing, while allowing him to avoid disputes and stay focused on competing responsibly. Norris’s second-place finish in Mexico helped him narrow the championship points gap to Verstappen, further strengthening his position.
As the competition moves to Brazil, Norris is hopeful for a “cleaner battle” with Verstappen, though he remains aware of the unpredictability that can arise. While recent incidents have drawn attention to Verstappen’s approach, Norris is unwavering in his commitment to maintaining a respectful, calculated racing style. With only a few races left, he trusts that the stewards will continue to enforce rules fairly. His approach to racing, balancing caution with competitiveness, reflects a long-term strategy for success, particularly as he aims to close the season on a high note.
