'Should’ve Been Eight': Norris Takes Sly Dig At Verstappen; Reignites 2021 F1 Title Debate

Last Updated:February 24, 2026, 20:37 IST

Norris, fresh from his 2025 World Championship win over Verstappen, jokingly called Hamilton an eight-time champion, seemingly referencing the infamous 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

Heavy is the head that wears the crown, and Lando Norris is wearing it loud.

Fresh off his maiden 2025 World Championship triumph over Max Verstappen, the McLaren star appears to be embracing a more outspoken persona.

When asked about expectations for Lewis Hamilton ahead of the 2026 season, Norris, a known Hamilton admirer, couldn’t resist a sly jab.

“He’s not won seven World Championships… well, should have been eight," stated Norris at an event where he was answering a question from the crowd.

Subtle? Not quite.

One Lap From History

The comment is widely seen as a nod to the controversial 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, one of the most debated moments in Formula 1 history.

Heading into the finale, Hamilton and Verstappen were level on points after a season-long duel. For much of the race, Hamilton appeared destined to secure a record-breaking eighth title, surpassing Michael Schumacher.

Then came the late safety car triggered by a crash from Nicolas Latifi.

Race director Michael Masi allowed only the lapped cars between Hamilton and Verstappen to unlap themselves before restarting the race for one final lap.

On fresher tyres, Verstappen swept past Hamilton to seize both the race win and his first world title.

Had the race finished under safety car conditions, Hamilton would have been champion.

Not the First Slip

This isn’t the first time Norris has alluded to Hamilton as an eight-time champion. During a previous livestream, he referred to the Brit as such before quickly correcting himself.

And in a twist of irony, the very safety car that changed F1 history is reportedly up for sale in the UK for just under £600,000.

Well, one would hope that Lando realises that it’s one thing to be the hunter, and a whole other thing to be hunted — especially when the apex predator, Max Verstappen, is on your tail.

The 2026 F1 season will kick off on March 8 in Australia.

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