A few minutes from the arrival of the Italian Grand Prix 2025, a storm is announced in the Formule 1 paddock. Lando Norris has once again completed a superb course before reaching the summit and it will be difficult to beat Max Verstappen. “Il n’est pas à mon niveau”, declared Norris to the international press. He added that Verstappen could do better with Pension, so that Red Bull could focus fully on the future and not be embarrassed by a pilot who, according to him, “achieved his best times”.

Les propos de Norris ont fait l’effet d’une bombe. Verstappen, now a four-time world champion, is considered the face of Formule 1 for years. His dominance in previous seasons not only made him an icon of the sport, but also a reference for other pilots. The fact that Norris, one of the greatest rivals of these last years, attacked him so frontally was perceived by many as a deliberate attempt to play a psychological game and win the championship.

A little later, Verstappen addressed the press. Asked about Norris’ statements, he answered with remarkable conciseness. His response was only in nine words: “If it’s your level, then I’m satisfied.” » À partir ce moment, vous en saurez plus sur les two important points: il se laisse briser par les déclarations d’un competitor. Analysts have hailed the calm and assurance with which Verstappen expressed himself. In contrast to the harsh tone of Norris, the Néerlandais opted for a subtle but sharp retort that, according to many, was more effective than a long defense. The quote has been massively shared on social networks, with fans calling it “cold fire” and “coup de maître dans la guerre mentale”. The situation has been followed closely by Red Bull. Christian Horner, a member of the team, rejoiced at the exceptional performance of Verstappen, who occupies a crucial place in each new title. « Max is one of those champions who always loved the best. Criticism is part of haut niveau sport, but we know what it’s worth,” Horner said.

Norris, for his part, was criticized by several former pilots, who judged his actions disrespectful towards a four-time world champion. However, some have defended Norris, affirming that his statements only aimed to accentuate the pressure and the fight for the title. The Italian Grand Prix 2025 will remain in the memory not only for the action on the track, but also for the verbal duel that followed. While Norris fueled the fire with his acerbic proposals, in only nine words, Verstappen managed to appease the spirits and present himself again as the experienced driver, dominating the disputes. The courses, certainly, are not as sporty, but they offer the occasion of an intense psychological struggle between two of the greatest talents of their generation.