Verstappen issues F1 rival relationship verdict in 'IDIOTS' claim

Max Verstappen has opened up about his relationship with Formula 1 rival Lando Norris in an ‘idiots’ claim.

The Red Bull and McLaren stars found themselves in an intense championship rivalry during the 2024 season, which put their off-track friendship to the test.

F1 HEADLINES: Verstappen rival SWITCH plans revealed as Red Bull star confirmed in driver lineup

READ MORE: Horner issues SHOCK statement on Red Bull release

As Norris edged closer to Verstappen in the championship standings, the pair increasingly became entangled in on-track battles, with controversy arising between the drivers in Austria, Austin and Mexico.

The latter of these races saw Verstappen slammed with two 10-second time penalties for his racing tactics used against Norris, where he forced the McLaren star wide.

Verstappen addresses F1 rivalry with Norris

Following their incident in Mexico, Norris hit out at Verstappen and branded his rival's tactics as ‘dangerous', complaining about his driving style.

Whilst some were concerned that their on-track rivalry would destroy their friendship, Verstappen has since clarified that their relationship is good, and claimed that ‘idiots’ on social media tend to make matters worse.

"People always make it worse on social media," Verstappen said on the Talking Bull Podcast.

"There are a lot of idiots on that platform. They always have something to say or something to complain about.

READ MORE: Hamilton TALKS confirmed in shock signing plans away from Ferrari

"There are also a lot of positive people but also some proper idiots. I think it's better to ignore all of that.

"Lando and I get on really well. Of course at times things get tense on track but off track that shouldn't matter. But we are good."

READ MORE: RB chief issues Ricciardo BLAME statement