The McLaren driver, following the double disqualification in Las Vegas that reopened the championship race in Verstappen’s favor: “We know what he’s capable of. I know a lot of people have said things about me, but that’s part of the game”

With a brisk stride and his eyes downcast, as if trying to shield himself from cameras and microphones, Lando Norris arrives in Qatar after the double disqualification suffered by his McLaren in Las Vegas has forcefully brought his most feared rival, Verstappen, back into contention. “In every briefing, we’ve always considered him a threat. We know what he’s capable of, and we know what Red Bull is capable of.” And with the Dutchman 24 points behind in the drivers’ standings: “Nothing has to change; in my head, everything is the same as before.”

His mindset. On Thursday in Lusail, Norris said he’d “stepped away from social media.” “I don’t want to know anything. I know a lot of people have said things about me, but that’s part of the game. I’ll let them waste their energy—those little games don’t work on me.” Not easy after a weekend where a technical issue (excessive tire wear) cost him a second-place finish that was crucial for the world championship. “It hurt,” the Englishman admits, “but at the same time, I expected it. It was as if I felt it was bound to happen sooner or later. I took a few days off, disconnecting from everything, and now I’m fine. For me, it’s as if nothing happened.”

low morale—  And now Qatar. “It’ll be like being in Mexico, when I arrived knowing I wasn’t leading the championship. I’m just as relaxed as I was when I was 35 points behind Oscar.” And speaking of his pit-mate: “I’m convinced he’s just as much of a threat as Verstappen. I consider them equally strong.” The Australian says thanks, but deep down he’s now convinced that “even two perfect weekends won’t be enough to win the championship. It would take some outside help….” It’s hard to argue with him, given that the standings now have him tied on points with Verstappen after leading the championship for most of the season. “I’ve struggled in the last few races. Unfortunately, I’ve also made some mistakes, and that shouldn’t happen, but that’s how it went.”