Lando Norris slates 'media bullshit' in agitated George Russell exchange

Lando Norris and George Russell exchanged words after qualifying in Qatar while conducting post-session interviews, with the former taking aim at a media outlet for creating “bullshit” following a mistake on his final Q3 lap.

Norris ended qualifying in second place as he failed to improve on his final attempt after an early lap mistake.

It handed a major opportunity to team-mate and title rival Oscar Piastri, who soared to the top spot in the timesheets to take pole position for the Qatar Grand Prix.

After the session, Norris and Russell were side-by-side in the TV media pen where they were conducting post-race interviews with various outlets.

Norris caught Russell's attention by asking a question, which can't be heard, before they fleshed out the situation in a tense exchange of words.

Russell: “You told me, the reason you messed up Turn 1 was because of me!”

Norris: “Who said that?”

Russell: [Points over his shoulder] “Someone said you were blaming me."

Norris: "It's media mate, obviously [inaudible] bullshit. I can't believe you believe them over me. I'm pretty disappointed in you.”

Russell: "It sounded like something you might say, though."

Norris: "What even happened? Where were you? You let me pass.”

Russell: "I wanted to give you a tow to help win the championship!”

The atmosphere then shifted as smiles returned to both of their faces before they moved to further clarify the situation.

Norris: "You let me past into [Turn] 1 and I messed it up in [Turn] 2. Who said it?”

Russell and Norris then turned to face the rest of the media pen, with Russell pointing to one TV reporter in particular, stating: “I think she said it. She's responsible, she's stirring.”

Norris: “She's not going to get an interview today.”

Norris will start the Qatar Grand Prix from second on the grid, while Russell is set to take the start from fourth.