Norris fires back at Verstappen over F1 rules: 'If he wants, he can retire'

Speaking to GPblog during day two of pre-season testing at the Bahrain International Circuit, the McLaren driver was asked about Verstappen’s recent remarks, in which the Red Bull champion suggested the new-generation cars feel less fun to drive and do not reflect what he believes Formula 1 should be.

Norris, however, was quick to discount the thoughts of the Red Bull Racing driver, stressing he can call it quits with the sport if he desires to.

“A lot of fun. I really enjoyed it. If he wants to retire, he can retire. Formula One changes all the time. Sometimes it's a bit better to drive, sometimes not as good to drive," Norris began.

The 2025 drivers’ champion added that complaints are difficult to justify given the privileges that come with racing at the top level.

“Any driver can go and find something else to do. It's not like he has to be here, or any driver has to be here, but it's a challenge. It's a good, fun challenge for the engineers and for the drivers. It's different,” he added.

Norris also acknowledged that the 2026 regulations will demand a change in driving style, but stressed that the core enjoyment of Formula 1 remains intact.

Earlier, Verstappen had bared his mind on the new F1 regulations, labelling them as Formula E cars on steroids.

Earlier, Verstappen aired his thoughts on the claims of Mercedes team boss, Toto Wolff, labelling the Red Bull team as the quickest on the F1 grid.

The four-time world champion downplayed the high praise from the Austrian, stressing how such comments are part of tactics employed by various teams at the start of a new regulation cycle.