At the Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix on Sunday, Lando Norris’s checkered flag served as an incredibly popular first-career victory.

Drivers all across the grid, including defending champion and second-place finisher Max Verstappen, congratulated Norris.

Though Norris is a strong contender for the Dutchman’s championship, will Norris’s rise to prominence affect Verstappen and Norris’ friendship? According to Norris, there is no need for concern.

Explaining That Their Relationship Is Not What It Seems, Lando Norris.

If he continues to win, will their dynamic change? Norris said, “I’m sure it will.” Not in an offensive manner. I don’t mean to come across negatively. We regard each other with respect.

We’re not the best of friends, and we don’t text each other every day or anything like that, but we get along. However, I have a great deal of respect for him, and he has the same for me.

Thus, I’m excited about it. I would like to put him to the test. I would like to compete with him. Since I believe he is among the greatest Formula 1 drivers of all time, I want to compete. I’m proving myself against one of the greatest if I can defeat him. And I want to do that precisely.

For a long time, Norris was regarded as one of the best young drivers in Formula 1. However, it took him more than five seasons and 110 races to eventually take the top step of the podium due to an uncompetitive car and persistent bad luck.

Currently, it appears that he will add a few more to that total, as his McLaren team is performing well.

If he does, it’s possible that his previously cordial friendship with Verstappen may become a little less amicable. If that happens, though, it seems like Norris is content to accept that as a result of his achievement.