Lando Norris criticises Max Verstappen: 'He's not racing smart'

Lando Norris has stated Max Verstappen is ruining his own races by being aggressive with his defensive manoeuvres.

Verstappen started the Miami race from pole position but came under early pressure from the McLaren duo.

Norris was forced into the run-off area after running side-by-side with Verstappen in the opening corner, allowing his team-mate Oscar Piastri to slip through for second.

Verstappen, who is known for his aggressive defensive tactics, fought hard against Piastri when the Australian attacked for the lead.

It failed to work out in the Red Bull driver's favour as a lock-up at Turn 1 gifted the lead - and ultimately the win - to Piastri.

Norris attacked later in the race and faced a similar strict defence from Verstappen, but managed to get through for second.

Asked for his verdict on his battles with Verstappen, Norris said: “It was fine. He’s fighting hard, but it’s up to him to do that. 

“He’s ruining his own race. He’s not racing very smart. 

“We probably could have finished 1-2, and he didn’t because of that. So yeah, he’s fighting, that is always expected, but that’s what it is.”

Norris found himself in sixth at the end of the first lap, putting his race on the back foot.

Although his difficult start played a significant role in his final result, Norris was pleased with his race execution.

“I never wanted to let Oscar get too far out of my sights, but I had to put up a good challenge in the first quarter or third of the race trying to get past the Mercedes, trying to get past the Williams, trying to get past Max,” he added. 

“Not an easy start for sure, but I made my way through reasonably quickly I think. And of course, the car was very strong today, so that definitely helps.”