Norris suggests 'comedy' career for Verstappen after wild claim

Lando Norris has shut down Max Verstappen's claim he would have won the F1 title this year in the McLaren MCL38 car.

Verstappen clinched his fourth championship last time out in Las Vegas following a run to fifth place.

The Dutchman highlighted in Las Vegas that Red Bull has not possessed the fastest car for at least 70 per cent of the campaign.

McLaren took a sizeable step forward this year and is currently leading the constructors' championship with two rounds remaining.

When asked if he would have won the F1 title behind the wheel of McLaren's car, Verstappen replied: "Yes, even earlier, so [I would have been] further ahead.”

However, speaking to media including RacingNews365 ahead of the Qatar Grand Prix, Norris refuted the suggestion.

“He should have started in comedy or something,” he said. “He can say whatever he wants. 

“Of course, I completely disagree, as I would. He's good, but it's not true.”

Norris hopeful for Qatar comeback

McLaren enter the weekend in Qatar with the first chance to lift the constructors' trophy for the first time in 26 years.

Ferrari, who currently lie second in the standings, has warned it does not expect to be as competitive as McLaren around the Lusail circuit.

Norris has suggested the weekend is wide open for any to grab - but highlighted Mercedes as the likely favourite following its 1-2 finish last week and its form around the Qatar venue in 2023.

“Mercedes were very quick here last year, so they're definitely the favourites coming into this weekend,” he said.

“Red Bull were good last year, we were good as well. So I'm expecting a good battle. 

“I'm hoping it probably favours us a little bit more than  Ferrari. But Ferrari fixed a lot of the woes that they were struggling with last year. 

“So [I have] no idea, but when you look at things, Ferrari and Mercedes seem like the guys in a better flow at the moment.”