Max Verstappen issues comical response to successful Lando Norris defence

Max Verstappen issued a comical response when asked how he successfully kept Lando Norris behind him in the closing laps of the Spanish Grand Prix, held at the Madring.

The Dutchman started from third but gained a position to secure an impressive second-place finish, more than was expected of Red Bull heading into the event.

It was an eventful start for Verstappen, who cut the opening corner, passing Lewis Hamilton and race winner Kimi Antonelli in the process.

Red Bull instructed Verstappen to return both positions, something the four-time world champion did after initially complaining.

Hamilton's retirement promoted the 28-year-old back into third, before he rose to second after Norris was unable to pit during a virtual safety car period while leading the race. Verstappen did pit.

Fresher tyres allowed Norris to catch Verstappen in the closing laps, yet the reigning world champion was unable to find a way past.

"Looking at the race pace, for us, a great result," said Verstappen.

"Lando got unlucky with the VSC, so for us P2 is an incredible result because you could see how much he was catching me but around here you can't pass, so I could keep him behind."

Verstappen Madring criticism continues after strong podium

Verstappen has been critical of the Madring's layout throughout the weekend, mostly because it does not feature an overtaking opportunity. 

That, in itself, made defending simple for Red Bull's star driver.

Asked how he kept Norris behind, Verstappen explained: "Just keep the car in the middle. 

"That works quite well around here and just trying to keep the grip in the tyres, which was the hardest part of that stint."