There are cracks beginning to appear between George Russell and Lando Norris. The British duo have known each other since childhood, karting and practically growing up together. But they’ve always been fierce competitors too and had a habit of ending up together often at the front row.

Turns out that as the duo is growing up, they’ve started taking sly shots at each other. Norris had earlier pointed out how Russell was not as fun as he used to be before, given he shifted to Mercedes.

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In an interview, Norris had actually complained, “Growing up with George was a lot of fun. He was a great person, but it is different at Mercedes–a different vibe and a different atmosphere.” Of course, it didn’t go unnoticed by the fans, as the F1 fraternity found the first possible crack in their friendship.

Shots fired! George Russell claps back at Lando Norris

Very recently, Russell was interviewed about Norris’s statement. And his reply was, well, a good taste of humor. The Silver Arrows driver said, “I have always been serious. I know how to separate work and private life, of course, you can go and have a beer with me too sometimes. “

“Everyone changes, nobody’s the person they were ten years ago. At 17, a lot of people want to party every night, with thirty that isn’t the case anymore. That’s also due to the circumstances. This season, I had 27 more days compared to 2021 where I had to do sponsor or PR appointments for the team.”

“27 days I was missing as a racing driver. When I have time off, I go to the gym and not the golf course, no matter how nice the weather is.” He further added.

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The pair’s latest interaction was the French Grand Prix, where Norris out qualified Russell by one grid place. Safe to say, it excited fans for the battle that will unfold on race day. Are you ready for Norris vs Russell?