![Lewis Hamilton and Lando Norris](https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x960/filters:format(webp)/sportsinfo/media/media_files/89cUIRjQG5jO5DrST7ed.jpg)
Lewis Hamilton and Lando Norris (Source: F1)
In the aftermath of the Hungarian Grand Prix, tensions flared between Lewis Hamilton and Lando Norris during a post-race encounter in the cooling down room. The incident, captured on camera and shared widely on social media, has sparked a heated debate among fans and pundits.
The scene unfolded as Hamilton, who secured a third-place finish, waited for Norris and his McLaren teammate, Oscar Piastri. Norris, visibly agitated after finishing second, entered the room and immediately threw his cap to the ground in frustration. This marked the beginning of a tense exchange between the two drivers.
Hamilton, attempting to break the ice, complimented McLaren's performance by stating, "You guys are fast." However, his comment was met with an unexpectedly harsh response from Norris, who retorted, "You had a fast car seven years ago!"
Here is the video:
There's not a lot of 'cooling down' going on here, guys... 🔥
— Formula 1 (@F1) July 21, 2024
A tense first episode of the Oscar Piastri podcast 😬#F1 #HungarianGP pic.twitter.com/WvnZVBXo15
The remark seemed to sting Hamilton, who responded, "Seven years ago? That's a long time. Were you here seven years ago?" Norris fired back, "You know you had a quick car. You made the most of it, and now it's us." Hamilton, visibly frustrated, clarified, "I wasn't complaining. I was just complimenting you on your car."
Fans lashed out at Lando Norris for his reaction
The exchange highlighted the underlying tensions between the two drivers, reflecting the competitive nature of the sport. The incident quickly gained traction online, with many fans criticizing Lando Norris for his comments. Social media was abuzz with reactions, with some calling Norris "childish," "rude," and "jealous."
The backdrop to this confrontation was a dramatic Hungarian Grand Prix, where intra-team dynamics at McLaren came to the forefront. Oscar Piastri, in his debut Grand Prix victory, had to navigate team orders and strategic decisions that saw him eventually reclaim the lead from Norris.
The race itself was filled with excitement, as Piastri, Norris, and Red Bull’s Max Verstappen went three abreast into Turn 1, with Piastri emerging as the leader. However, the pivotal moment came during the second round of pit stops.
Norris was pitted first, ostensibly to cover off Hamilton, which resulted in him emerging ahead of Piastri. McLaren's team orders then demanded Norris give back the position to his teammate, a directive he reluctantly complied with only on Lap 68 of 70. Piastri ultimately clinched his maiden victory, finishing two seconds ahead of Norris, while Hamilton secured the final podium position after a tumultuous race.