Lando Norris fires back at Max Verstappen with a bold claim about being the better driver

Lando Norris fires back at Max Verstappen with a bold claim about being the better driver

Lando Norris has openly disagreed with Max Verstappen’s harsh words about the new F1 power unit energy rules.

After nearly four weeks off, the Formula One season is back this weekend with the Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort’s MASCOT Circuit.

As we get ready for race 12 of the 2026 season, the new regulations introduced this year are still a hot topic. Verstappen, a four-time world champion, has been one of the loudest critics, especially about the power unit energy algorithms. These rules make the car’s system decide when to harvest, save, and use its limited battery power automatically. Verstappen argues this takes away drivers’ ability to truly make a difference during the race.

“Sometimes you just can’t make a difference,” he said after the Belgian Grand Prix. “You’re not allowed because the system will just penalize you on the next straight.”

But Norris, the reigning champ, doesn’t fully agree. Talking about Verstappen’s point, he said “better drivers” can still gain an advantage, especially in corners.

“There are some corners that have become less important, like Pouhon at Spa. Last year, you could maybe get close by driving flat out while someone else didn’t, gaining a tiny edge,” Norris told the media ahead of the Dutch GP.

“Sure, some corners are tighter now, but if you’re a better driver, there are still places to find an advantage. So, I wouldn’t say I agree with all of it. If you’re driving well, you’ll still lead on fast tracks like Silverstone and Spa. There are just fewer corners where you can gain time.”

Norris added, “But at places like Hungaroring, I don’t think that’s true at all. It’s not just about being confused by the algorithms; sometimes the system just does weird things. You have to adapt your driving to help the battery, which is different from before. Even the tires feel different, so you can’t be as aggressive as in previous years.”

He finished by saying, “Every car is different, so I can’t speak for everyone else. We have to drive our cars differently than last year, but that’s part of the job.”

Meanwhile, Verstappen said he’s getting tired of talking about these rule changes after every race.

“I’ve said my thoughts on these rules for a long time. At first, people told me to shut up,” he said. “But lately, more people see what I’ve been saying for a while. It’s not about me losing anymore—it’s because I care about the sport. But repeating myself so often gets tiring.”

Verstappen’s frustration has even led him to hint he might leave the sport one day, and his comments before his home race suggest he’s feeling that way again.

“At some point, I just get fed up repeating myself because driving is already hard enough.”

The Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort will start at 2:00 pm BST on Sunday.