Verstappen Surprised by Norris's Azerbaijan Win
Max Verstappen expressed his surprise at Lando Norris's unexpected victory in the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, highlighting the British driver's strong performance and the unpredictable nature of the race.
"I think it was a surprise for everyone that Lando won," said Verstappen during the post-race interview. "He drove a fantastic race. He was really quick all weekend, and he deserved the win."
The Red Bull driver, who started the race in second place, was unable to challenge pole-sitter Sergio Perez due to a mechanical issue that hindered his car's performance. "I had a problem with my car, and I lost a lot of performance," he explained. "After that, it was very difficult to keep up with the leaders."
Verstappen's surprise at Norris's win is understandable, as the McLaren driver had not been a frontrunner throughout the season. Norris, however, capitalized on the chaotic race conditions, which saw several drivers, including Verstappen, encounter mechanical problems.
"It's amazing for him, and it's good to see a different winner," added Verstappen. "It shows that anything can happen in Formula 1."
Norris's victory not only marked his first win of the season but also McLaren's first win since 2021. The team's performance in Azerbaijan has solidified their position as a contender for podium finishes in the upcoming races.
Verstappen, despite the setback in Azerbaijan, remains the championship leader with a comfortable lead. He will be looking to reclaim the top spot and maintain his dominance in the upcoming races.
The unexpected win in Azerbaijan is a testament to Lando Norris's talent and McLaren's resurgence. The race also highlights the unpredictability of Formula 1 and the potential for surprises.