The 2024 Formula 1 season culminated in a dramatic finale in Abu Dhabi, where Max Verstappen clinched his fourth consecutive world title. While the Red Bull driver celebrated, his closest challenger, McLaren's Lando Norris, was full of admiration, having lost the championship by a mere two points in a battle that went down to the wire.
A Bond Forged in Karting and Tested on the Track
The respect between the two drivers is deep-rooted, stretching back to their formative years in karting. Norris, 26, has always looked up to Verstappen, 28, since they first met. This long-standing camaraderie was on full display after the championship-deciding race. An emotional Norris hugged the newly crowned champion, reflecting that all the sacrifices made by him and his family felt worthwhile despite the narrow defeat.
This moment was a poignant echo of the past. In 2021, when Verstappen won his maiden title in a controversial finish against Lewis Hamilton, it was a teary-eyed Verstappen who sought comfort in a hug from Norris. Sharing that iconic image on Instagram at the time, Norris had written a supportive message: "Congrats World Champ. I got you, don't cry @maxverstappen1." Back then, Norris finished sixth in the standings, a distant observer to the titanic fight.
Title Battles and Trophy Troubles: Defining Moments
The 2024 championship fight was a testament to their evolved rivalry. Verstappen ultimately secured his fourth title with a 63-point margin over Norris, a gap that doesn't fully reflect the intensity of their season-long duel. To mark the occasion, Norris shared a nostalgic throwback picture from their karting days, captioning it: "Congrats on the 4th title in a row mate, awesome drive this year. Was fun fighting you for it. Feels like yesterday we took this pic in karting."
Their relationship isn't without its lighter, accidental moments. In 2023, at the Hungarian Grand Prix, Norris mistakenly broke Verstappen's winner's trophy during post-race celebrations. A sheepish Norris promptly apologised, and the organisers later replaced the damaged prize. Norris shared the proof of the mended trophy on his social media with a simple update: "It's fixed," alongside a video of Verstappen receiving the repaired award.
Mutual Respect Beyond the Podium
In his post-championship interviews, Norris was effusive in his praise for Verstappen's relentless drive. Speaking to Sky Sports, he highlighted Verstappen's incredible comeback during the season: "I think if this year has proved anything, it's not from my side, but seeing Max come from 100 points back to where he did at the end, that's incredible. He doesn't need any more respect than what he's got."
Even at the recent FIA Prize Giving Ceremony, where Norris was honoured as the championship runner-up, Verstappen's presence was felt despite his physical absence. The Dutch driver, who had called in sick, sent a warm video message to congratulate his friend and rival on his stellar season, underscoring the professional respect that defines their connection.
The journey of Lando Norris and Max Verstappen—from wide-eyed karters to the two main protagonists in Formula 1—is a narrative of fierce competition underpinned by genuine mutual admiration. As the sport looks ahead, this rivalry, built on a foundation of shared history and respect, promises to deliver more thrilling chapters in the seasons to come.
