Max Verstappen and Lando Norris are set to renew their rivalry at Silverstone this weekend following a controversial collision at the Austrian Grand Prix. Catch every session of the British Grand Prix live on Sky Sports F1 and Sky Showcase.
After a heated collision between Max Verstappen and Lando Norris at the Austrian Grand Prix, the future of their rivalry is a hot topic as they head to the British Grand Prix at Silverstone. The British GP is always a highly anticipated event on the Formula 1 calendar, but this year, it carries an extra level of excitement due to the recent incident between these two drivers.
Renewed Rivalry at Silverstone
For the first time since Verstappen’s intense 2021 title battle with Lewis Hamilton, F1 fans are witnessing the birth of another potential historic rivalry. In 2021, Verstappen was the rising star, but now he is the dominant force on the grid, facing a different dynamic. Unlike the rivalry with Hamilton, Verstappen and Norris share a genuine friendship, adding intrigue to how their story will unfold.
Close Duels Expected at Silverstone
Lap 64, Turn Three of the Austrian Grand Prix marked the first direct clash between Verstappen and Norris in a battle for the win, but it likely won’t be the last. Recent races have seen Norris and McLaren consistently challenge Verstappen and Red Bull. McLaren’s MCL38 has shown an edge in tire wear, making them formidable opponents. Although McLaren started the season behind their expectations, early-season upgrades have brought them back to the front of the pack. Norris secured his first F1 win in Miami in May and nearly repeated the feat at Imola.
In Austria, a wheel-to-wheel duel with Verstappen led to a controversial collision, resulting in simultaneous punctures. The stewards deemed Verstappen at fault, setting the stage for a high-stakes showdown at Silverstone, a track that suits both teams’ cars.
Impact on Their Friendship
The rivalry between Verstappen and Norris is unique due to their off-track friendship. They have traveled together, played padel, and attended events like the Tomorrowland music festival. However, the Austrian Grand Prix incident has put their friendship to the test. Norris expressed frustration post-race, suggesting he might lose respect for Verstappen if he doesn’t acknowledge his mistake. Verstappen defended his actions but did not take a hostile stance towards Norris.
Red Bull team principal Christian Horner revealed that the drivers have spoken since the incident, and he believes there is no issue. The true state of their friendship will be revealed when they address the media at Silverstone.
Brewing Red Bull-McLaren Rivalry
The collision has not only intensified the drivers’ rivalry but also sparked tension between their teams. McLaren team principal Andrea Stella criticized Verstappen’s driving, comparing it to his 2021 battles with Hamilton. Horner defended Verstappen, viewing the incident as a racing matter, and criticized Stella’s comments as unfair. McLaren CEO Zak Brown, known for his outspoken nature, will likely add to the debate at Silverstone.
Wider Implications of the Collision
While the collision was unfortunate for both drivers, it was less damaging for Verstappen, who finished fifth and extended his championship lead to 81 points. Despite the penalty, his position in the standings remains strong, with the Red Bull car still capable of winning races. However, Norris could still challenge for the championship if he continues to perform well in the upcoming races.
Looking Ahead to 2025
Even if Verstappen’s points lead is insurmountable this year, the rivalry between him and Norris is expected to remain intense heading into 2025. The competition at the front of the grid has become more promising, with all leading teams—Red Bull, Ferrari, McLaren, and Mercedes—winning at least one race this year. As the current regulation era draws to a close, the battle for supremacy in Formula 1 is set to be more thrilling than ever.
The stage is set for a dramatic British Grand Prix at Silverstone, where the rivalry between Max Verstappen and Lando Norris will continue to captivate F1 fans around the world.
Live British GP schedule
Thursday July 4
1.30pm: Drivers’ Press Conference
6pm: The F1 Show
Friday July 5
8.35am: F3 Practice
9.55am: F2 Practice
12pm: British GP Practice One (session starts at 12.30pm)
2.05pm: F3 Qualifying
3pm: F2 Qualifying
3.45pm: British GP Practice Two (session starts at 4pm)
Saturday July 6
9.15am: F3 Sprint
11.15am: British GP Practice Three (session starts at 11.30am)
1.10pm: F2 Sprint
2.15pm: British GP Qualifying build-up
3pm: British GP Qualifying
5pm: Ted’s Qualifying Notebook
Sunday July 7
8:15am: F3 Feature Race
9:50am: F2 Feature Race
11:50am: Porsche Supercup
1:30pm: Grand Prix Sunday – British GP build-up
3pm: The BRITISH GRAND PRIX
5pm: Chequered Flag: British GP reaction
6pm: Ted’s Notebook
Credit: Sky Sports
