F1 drama erupts: Lando Norris’ girlfriend Margarida Corceiro has issued an ultimatum and ridiculed Max Verstappen
The Formula 1 world is once again in turmoil after a controversial statement that has intensified the rivalry between McLaren driver Lando Norris and reigning world champion Max Verstappen. Margarida Corceiro, Norris’s girlfriend, recently lit the fuse with an explosive comment about Verstappen. In an interview that went viral on social media, the Portuguese actress and model stated that Verstappen owes his success primarily to “luck and the FIA’s preference.” She went a step further, claiming that if Norris had raced in the same era as Verstappen, the Dutchman would never have been hailed as a legend. These statements have unleashed a wave of reactions among fans and analysts, further inflaming tensions between McLaren and Red Bull.
Corceiro, a 22-year-old Portuguese with an impressive Instagram following of 2.1 million, is no stranger to the Formula 1 paddock. Her relationship with Norris, officially confirmed in 2025 after speculation since 2023, has earned her a prominent place in the spotlight. She was spotted in the paddock earlier this year at the Monaco and Hungarian Grands Prix, supporting Norris during his victories. Her presence and charisma have made her an influential figure not only in the fashion and entertainment worlds, but also within the Formula 1 community. Forbes Portugal even named her the most influential person on Instagram in her home country. However, her recent statements about Verstappen have landed her in a storm of controversy.
Corceiro’s remarks focused on Verstappen’s dominant position in the sport. The Dutchman, who will still be leading the championship in 2025, has achieved an unparalleled string of victories in recent years. Corceiro’s suggestion that his successes are largely due to luck and perceived bias from the FIA, the international motorsport federation, was seen by many as a direct attack on his legacy. She went on to argue that Norris, who achieved his first Grand Prix victories in 2025 in Monaco and Hungary, among other places, would have been superior on a level playing field. These remarks spread like wildfire across social media, with fans defending both Norris and Verstappen in heated debates.
But Verstappen was not to be deterred. In a short but powerful response via message on X, he silenced Corceiro with just seven words: “Let my results speak for themselves.” His understated yet confident response was widely praised for its simplicity and effectiveness. Fans praised Verstappen for his ability to rise above provocation while underlining his status as one of the greatest drivers in Formula 1 history. The response emphasised his focus on performing on track, where he has shown once again this season why he is the man to beat.
The controversy comes as the battle between Norris and Verstappen on the track is intensifying. Norris has developed into a serious contender in 2025, with multiple wins and a strong championship position. The rivalry between McLaren and Red Bull isn’t just sporting; it’s now also taking on a personal dimension thanks to Corceiro’s remarks. Some speculate that her words were a deliberate attempt to unbalance Verstappen mentally, while others believe they were an expression of frustration with Red Bull’s dominance. Either way, the Formula 1 community is abuzz with speculation about how this verbal battle will affect the dynamics on the track.
As the season progresses, the question remains whether Corceiro’s comments will have a lasting impact. Verstappen seems unfazed for now, focused on his quest for another world title. Norris, on the other hand, seems determined to prove he can challenge the Dutchman, both on and off the track. Corceiro’s involvement has shone a spotlight on her relationship with Norris, with fans wondering if she will play a lasting role in the paddock. For now, her statement has added another layer of drama to an already thrilling Formula 1 season, and the world awaits to see how this story unfolds.
