McLaren’s Lando Norris recently praised Max Verstappen, calling him one of the greatest Formula 1 drivers ever, emphasizing Verstappen’s impressive versatility beyond F1. Norris noted how Verstappen’s ability to excel in any racing series he enters, including GT3 racing, demonstrates his extraordinary skill and adaptability.
Unlike many drivers who focus solely on Formula 1, Max Verstappen has expanded his racing interests, delving into GT Racing after years spent mostly in sim racing. This year, Verstappen tested a GT car at the Nurburgring and later competed in a GT3 race driving the Ferrari 296 GT3 for Emil Frey Racing alongside Chris Lulham in September.
Starting third on the grid, Verstappen seized an early lead and dominated the race, finishing with a commanding margin of more than 20 seconds ahead of his rivals.
“I mean, it’s cool. It’s nice he can go and do what he wants. I think after you win four world championships, you have a bit more right to just go and choose what you want to do. Everyone knows how much Max loves doing all those things. And yeah, it’s nice that he goes to do something else that he enjoys.”
— Lando Norris, McLaren F1 Driver
Verstappen’s Career Achievements Put Him Among the Best in Formula 1 History
Max Verstappen’s achievements in Formula 1 are remarkable, with 67 race victories and four consecutive World Championships to his name. His record-breaking accomplishments have cemented his reputation as one of the sport’s all-time greats. Norris further underscored Verstappen’s exceptional status by pointing to his success beyond F1.
According to Norris, Verstappen’s ability to step into different motorsport categories and immediately perform at the highest level speaks volumes about his talent and greatness.
“But you can do what you want. Like, I don’t know how much it adds to your greatness or not, but the fact he can go into any series and be probably the best, I think does show how good he is and how great he is. I’ve said it many times. I think he’s born to be, and will forever be, one of the best ever, if not the best in Formula 1.”
— Lando Norris, McLaren F1 Driver
This praise comes as Verstappen continues to assert himself in the current F1 season, having recently won consecutive races at Monza and Baku. Despite currently trailing leader Oscar Piastri by 69 points with seven races left, Verstappen remains a strong contender for the championship.
Verstappen’s GT3 Performance at Nurburgring Showcases His Versatility
Max Verstappen’s participation in the GT3 race at Nurburgring was a significant milestone in showing his adaptability across motorsports disciplines. Previously known mostly for simulation racing within GT categories, his on-track debut in a Ferrari 296 GT3 under the Emil Frey Racing banner showcased just how quickly he can translate his skills into a real-world racing environment.
Starting in P3, Verstappen’s aggressive and strategic driving helped him take the lead early and maintain a comfortable margin over the field, finishing more than 20 seconds ahead at the checkered flag. His success in this high-profile GT race demonstrates how his talents transcend the boundaries of traditional Formula 1 racing and affirm his reputation as a multifaceted driver.
Lando Norris Reflects on Verstappen’s Impact and Future Prospects
Norris’s admiration for Verstappen extends beyond simple respect for his championship wins. He acknowledges the freedom Verstappen enjoys after securing multiple world titles, allowing him to pursue racing projects driven by passion rather than necessity. Norris’s reflections emphasize how Verstappen’s love for racing in various formats enriches his legacy and inspires others.
With Verstappen continuing to push limits both within Formula 1 and in other racing categories, his career trajectory suggests a lasting impact on motorsports culture. For fans and competitors alike, watching Verstappen’s GT3 ventures alongside his F1 campaigns offers an exciting glimpse into the future possibilities of racing versatility.
