Norris told he ‘underestimated’ Verstappen F1 aggression

Former F1 driver Martin Brundle has stated Lando Norris “underestimated” how aggressive Max Verstappen was willing to be when they went wheel-to-wheel earlier this year.

The pair collided while fighting for the lead at the Austrian Grand Prix, resulting in retirement for Norris.

Verstappen was able to complete the race in fifth place but was issued a five-second time penalty for the clash.

A 52-point sits between the two in Verstappen's favour with just six rounds remaining this year.

Brundle highlighted a major question mark still exists over Norris' mental strength as the 24-year-old hunts for his first F1 title.

“He’s got the speed, the team certainly has a great car,” Brundle told Sky Sports News. “Lando is growing, learning and getting more confident.

“Chasing and being chased are completely different stories in any sport. 

“If he gets near to winning a world championship, whether it’s this year or next year, how is his head? I don’t think we know with anybody until that moment arrives.”

Experience 'massive' factor in F1 title race

The Spielberg collision is the only flashpoint the two have had this year while fighting towards the front of the field.

Brundle assessed that Norris will become a more polished driver through his experiences with Verstappen.

When asked how much of a factor experience will be in the quest for the title, Brundle replied: “Massive.” 

“We saw in Austria they tripped over each other, Lando underestimated his mate Max over how aggressive he would be in combat.

“He’s learned from that. He’s still on a slope like that in terms of learning. Winning races consistently, he’s just started doing that, leading from pole at the end of the first lap, he’s got that sorted out.

“Just the way he won in Holland and Singapore was just incredible. All of those things will give him confidence.”