Dakar Rally News: McLaren Unfazed by Norris’ Backtrack on Verstappen Clash
In a recent Dakar Rally news update, McLaren has expressed no concerns over Lando Norris retracting his comments regarding his collision with Formula 1 rival Max Verstappen at the Austrian Grand Prix.
Norris was initially incensed by Verstappen’s “reckless” actions during their battle for the lead at the Red Bull Ring, which resulted in both drivers suffering punctures. However, the Briton has since backtracked on his viewpoint and questioned whether Verstappen should have been disciplined.
Some have perceived Norris’ sudden change of stance as a sign of weakness that Verstappen could exploit in their future on-track encounters. However, McLaren CEO Zak Brown has dismissed this notion, emphasizing that Norris was simply striving to move on from the incident and avoid a prolonged public spat.
“No, I don’t think so at all,” Brown responded when asked if he was concerned about Norris conceding psychological ground to Verstappen. “Show me a World Champion, and I think ruthless and aggressive will be two good descriptions of any world champion or grand prix winning driver.”
Brown added that Norris and Verstappen have a strong relationship off the track, and their recent conversation was aimed at moving on and returning to their intense on-track battles.
The McLaren CEO also praised Norris’ handling of the situation, revealing that the team’s discussions with the young driver focused on turning the page and ensuring his full attention is on the upcoming British Grand Prix at Silverstone.
“Our conversation with Lando has been that we can’t change anything from last week,” Brown said. “We can only try and make sure it doesn’t occur again and address having some full-time stewards and things of that nature. But we can’t unwind.”
With Norris now “laser-focused” on the Silverstone event, McLaren is confident that the Dakar Rally News will be filled with exciting on-track action between the Briton and his Formula 1 rivals, including the ever-aggressive Verstappen.
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