Lando Norris showed great team spirit in Hungary but still lacks the mindset of a multiple world champion.
McLaren appreciated Norris for being a good teammate, letting Oscar Piastri pass him in the final moments of the Hungarian GP. This move, though controversial, wasn’t due to any mistake by Norris. He followed orders and drove well, but ended up ahead of Piastri.
Norris gave way because McLaren’s pit wall insisted. His race engineer reminded him that not complying would mean losing team support. Piastri had helped him before; now it was his turn to return the favor.
Why Norris is not yet at Verstappen’s level
This situation highlighted something about Norris. While it’s commendable he acted as a team player and gave up victory, it also shows he lacks the fierce determination seen in top champions. Max Verstappen, Lewis Hamilton, Fernando Alonso, or Michael Schumacher wouldn’t have given up their position so easily.
Fans might think this is why he’s not yet a champion like them. These drivers are often labeled selfish because they prioritize winning above all else. Formula 1 is both a team sport and an individual battle for the championship title. By yielding his spot, Norris sacrificed seven points in that fight.
Verstappen has been called angry and spoiled for his radio outbursts during races. Hamilton faced similar criticism when complaining about car issues even while leading. This relentless drive for perfection and victory at any cost sets them apart as multiple world champions—something Norris hasn’t achieved yet.
What do you think? Should Norris have held his ground?
