Max Verstappen and FIA press conferences have always been an interesting combination, often marked by the Dutchman’s bluntness and occasional irreverence. His relationship with these mandatory media sessions has never been particularly warm, and in 2024 his use of an expletive during an official FIA press event even resulted in disciplinary action. As a result, Verstappen was given “Formula 1 community work”, which he eventually completed at the FIA’s end-of-season gala in Rwanda.
As the new season got underway, Verstappen found himself back at an FIA press conference for the first time in 2025. The familiar presence of Tom Clarkson was replaced by Lawrence Barretto, a familiar face to F1 fans via the sport’s official streaming service, F1 TV. While Verstappen’s answers were characteristically brief and laced with his usual cynicism, the session also took a lighter turn when the subject of his friendship with Lando Norris came up.
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The press conference began with a question from journalist Ian Parkes about the much-discussed F1 season launch in London. The spectacle, which was meant to be a celebration of the upcoming season, took an uncomfortable turn for Verstappen when a significant portion of the crowd greeted him with boos.
His father, Jos Verstappen, later suggested that Max might boycott similar events in England in the future, as he felt the British public were hostile towards him.
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Red Bull team principal Christian Horner had already expressed his disappointment at the crowd’s reaction, describing the incident as “extremely disappointing”. Parkes, pressing the issue, asked Verstappen directly: “Your father went as far as to say that you might boycott future events in England. I’m just interested to hear how you felt about last week’s situation.
Verstappen, who showed no inclination to engage in the debate, responded with a deadpan delivery. “Was there booing? Maybe I’m deaf,” he said, his face betraying a mixture of defiance and sarcasm.
Then he ended the conversation altogether: “To be honest, I don’t really need to talk about it. It’s not worth wasting my time on”. Asked for his general thoughts on the event, he replied with an exaggeratedly serious expression: “It was absolutely fantastic.
The exchange encapsulated Verstappen’s approach to media scrutiny – direct, sometimes dismissive, but always in control of the narrative. He made it clear that he had no interest in revisiting the controversy, choosing instead to move on.
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The press conference took a lighter tone when the focus shifted to Verstappen’s relationship with Lando Norris, which has been the subject of constant media speculation.
Last season, the pair were involved in a number of intense on-track battles, leading to speculation that their previously friendly relationship had soured. Verstappen, however, has never been one to pay much attention to the press’ interpretation of events, and on this occasion he saw an opportunity to turn the tables.
Sitting next to Norris at the conference, Verstappen was asked by journalist Giles Richards about their dynamic heading into the new season.
“Max and Lando, last season you had some close duels, especially in the last third of the season. It got quite heated at times. I’d be interested to know what your relationship is like at the moment and how you’re approaching racing against each other this season.
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Norris and Verstappen mock the media
With a straight face and a deliberately serious tone, Verstappen replied, “Our relationship is terrible. We don’t understand each other at all. No sooner had he finished his comment than Norris, sitting next to him, could barely contain his laughter.
Doubling down on the joke, Verstappen added: “Last season left its mark. It’s all a big drama”. At this point, both drivers burst out laughing, making it abundantly clear that the supposed rift between them was nothing more than media exaggeration.
Norris then played along, adding to the joke: “We had an argument in a local pub the other day.”
Verstappen nodded and continued: “Yeah, we actually had to be escorted out. I always say, ‘You should see the other guy,’ but to be honest, he still looks good.”
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As the mood in the room lightened, Norris finally gave a more serious answer. “It’s not that bad,” he said, still smiling. “I think we’re both looking forward to more fights like last year. But I don’t think it’s just going to be between the two of us – there will be other riders involved, which will make it even more exciting for everyone.
He admits that the competition will be fierce, but insists that their mutual respect remains intact. “I know that these will be tough battles and that they won’t always end the way I want them to, or the way Max wants them to. But we are racers. We understand each other. We have always said that, even if others try to make their own stories out of it. We have a lot of respect for each other and we are looking forward to more exciting races on the track.
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A season of rivalry and respect
The light-hearted exchange between Verstappen and Norris provided a contrast to the more serious discussions about crowd reaction and the politics of the event. It also served as a reminder that while Formula One is a fiercely competitive environment, friendships can thrive amidst the rivalries.
Despite the dramatic narratives often constructed around them, both drivers seemed to enjoy their on-track battles and looked forward to another season of fierce but fair racing. If their jokes in the press conference were anything to go by, their rivalry is one based more on mutual respect than any real animosity.
When the 2025 season kicks off, Verstappen and Norris will undoubtedly find themselves wheel to wheel again, and while their on-track battles may get heated, their off-track camaraderie remains intact. For fans, it’s a compelling mix – rivalry without rancour, competition without conflict.
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With over 30 years of experience in Formula 1 as an insider journalist, I have built trusted connections across the paddock, from race engineers and mechanics to senior team figures. At The Judge 13, I and a handful of trusted colleagues share exclusive Formula 1 news, expert analysis and behind-the-scenes stories you will not find in mainstream motorsport media.
