F1 News: Lando Norris Responds to Backlash After Complaints From Fans
McLaren driver Lando Norris has apologised after accidentally smashing Max Verstappen's Hungarian Grand Prix trophy.
The Belgian-British driver was celebrating alongside Verstappen and Sergio Perez on the podium last weekend after his second P2 finish in a row. Norris went to do the iconic champagne bottle smash on Verstappen's podium step, but as he slammed the bottle down and the champagne sprayed out the top, it, unfortunately, made Verstappen's trophy topple over and smash.
Both drivers could be seen laughing in shock as the celebrations continued, and the two teams posted to social media to poke fun at the awkward moment. McLaren CEO Zak Brown even pretended to smash Norris' trophy during the teams post race group photo.
Many F1 fans were criticising the driver following the events, branding the move as "disrespectful". Although Verstappen and Red Bull could see it was accidental and there was clearly no bad feelings between the two teams over it, Norris has apologised and acknowledged what the trophies mean to Hungarian's.
Speaking to Sky Sports F1 ahead of the Belgian Grand Prix, Norris explained:
"First of all, I do want to apologise. I had no intention.
"I know what it means to Hungarian's and what it means to their culture. I of course made a couple of jokes about it, but maybe I shouldn't.
"I do feel bad. I did apologise to Max [Verstappen]. If he did it to my trophy I’d be annoyed. I will make sure I’m a lot more careful when I celebrate next time."
In the hours after the incident, it was revealed that the trophy was worth approximately €40,000. Whilst another one is in the process of being made, they are all hand-carved so this will take a long time.
The on-track action for the Belgian Grand Prix will be kicking off tomorrow with Free Practice One and Qualifying.