Norris denies ‘perfect’ Dutch GP despite Verstappen rout

Lando Norris has denied his Dutch Grand Prix was a “perfect” race despite besting Max Verstappen by over 20 seconds.

Norris’ race got off to a difficult start as he lost the lead from pole position, with Verstappen moving to the front off the line.

However, on lap 18 of the race, Norris moved back to the lead with an overtake on Verstappen into Turn 1.

From there, the Briton extended the gap for the remainder of the event en route to the chequered flag.

“It feels amazing,” Norris said. “I wouldn’t say a perfect race because of lap one again, but afterwards, it was beautiful.

“The pace was very strong. The car was unbelievable today. So I could get comfortable, I could push and get past Max, which was the main thing and I just go from there. 

“It was quite a straightforward race – still tough – but enjoyable.”

Norris admitted early on he recognised the win was still possible after losing the lead to Verstappen.

“I think from  quite early on, from probably lap five, six or seven, I expected Max to start pushing and get a bit of a gap, and he never did. 

“So from that point, I knew we were in a really good fight, but he seemed to just keep dropping off and my pace was getting better. 

“It’s a nice feeling inside the car, and especially when I got past, I could just get comfortable. I could push, I had clean air, and that’s always a big help.”