Lando Norris and George Russell started arguing mid-interview on the back of qualifying at the Qatar Grand Prix.
On Saturday evening, Oscar Piastri continued his timely revival as he clinched pole position for Sunday’s Grand Prix ahead of McLaren teammate Norris and reigning world champion Max Verstappen.
The Australian had won the Sprint earlier in the day to cut the gap to Norris to 22 points and will be looking to further reduce the deficit by winning the main Grand Prix.
For Norris, it is not all doom and gloom as he knows that he could afford to finish P3 tomorrow and next week and still win the world title.
During Q3, Norris originally put himself on provisional pole after his first flying lap.
However, on his last attempt, he had to bail out after making a mistake at the start, opening the door for Piastri to snatch pole position away.
After the session, both Russell and Norris were speaking to the media.
Lando Norris will start the Qatar Grand Prix from P2. Image: Getty
In a video posted on social media, Russell was heard saying to Norris: “Mate, you told the media the reason you messed up Turn 1 was because of me?”
After Norris replied: “Who said that?” Russell continued: “Someone said you’re blaming me?”
At this point, the McLaren driver hit back: “We’re with media, mate. All they do is spread b***s***. Can’t believe you believe them over me. It’s pretty disappointing.”
Russell then said: “It sounded like something you would say, though.”
Norris went on to question: “What even happened? Where were you? Did you let me pass?”
Russell responded: “I was giving you a tow! To help you win the championship.” Norris responded with a smile.
https://twitter.com/leclercsletters/status/1994863682824847431
Although they appeared to be arguing, it does not seem to be a serious issue, as Russell and Norris are well known to be good friends and were probably just having fun with each other.
Russell points out major Norris difference amid F1 title fight
In another interview, Russell pointed out a major difference he has noticed in Norris.
He said: “I think they’re three great drivers, and I think the three of them will also go into the race thinking it’s any other race.
“I think Lando’s probably more chilled than ever, and he’s been really amazing these last five or six races. Oscar’s pretty chilled at the worst of times.”
Russell added: “And Max is, obviously, Max. I mean that in a positive way, he’s not going to be stressed as he’s got four championships already.
“So, I don’t think those guys will be thinking [about me] too much. I might be wrong. I hope I’m wrong, and I hope it all goes wrong for them at the beginning.”
