Lando Norris names F1’s ‘best ever’ driver, and it’s not his countryman Lewis Hamilton

During an interview with The Times at the Singapore Grand Prix, Lando Norris once again spoke about how much he respects Verstappen, admitting that he is still working towards reaching his level.

The Briton places Verstappen and Hamilton in the same bracket, but when it comes to picking a GOAT, he gives the edge to Max.

Hamilton’s standing in that conversation has taken a hit in recent years. Since ground-effect regulations were introduced, he has not reached the same heights, and this season looks set to finish behind Charles Leclerc.

Norris explained that Verstappen grew up surrounded by Formula 1, with his father Jos racing in the sport and even training alongside Michael Schumacher during his childhood.

The McLaren driver said: “[Max] is probably the best ever in Formula 1. There is respect for him and I have always said that. I have a lot of respect for what he is capable of doing and everyone is trying to be at the level he is at every weekend.

“He still makes mistakes and there are races where he could have done better. He is maybe the best driver ever, up there with the greats of Lewis Hamilton, the guys in the past, and it is hard to beat someone who was born into an F1 seat.”

From villain to GOAT?

Ted Kravitz once said Lewis Hamilton was ‘robbed’ of his eighth title, and for some fans, Verstappen was painted as the villain. But there has been a noticeable shift in how he is viewed these days.

This year at Monza, instead of boos, Verstappen was met with cheers and even serenades from the crowd after both Italian races.

Recent fan polls also show him among F1’s most popular drivers. While dominance often brings criticism, there seems to be a growing respect for his ability now that he’s no longer seen as the clear favourite.