In a bid to mend fences, Formula One drivers Lando Norris and Max Verstappen have met and cleared the air following their intense altercation at the Austrian Grand Prix. Although Norris claims they are still "great friends," Verstappen remains unwavering in his driving style and states he will not be making any changes.

The incident occurred during a battle for the lead at the Red Bull Ring, forcing Norris to retire from the race after being hit by Verstappen. Immediately after the clash, Norris expressed his anger, accusing Verstappen of recklessness and desperation, and demanding an apology. However, ahead of the British Grand Prix, Norris shared that he had spoken to Verstappen twice during the week and believed that his initial reaction was fueled by the heat of the moment.

"Some of the things I said after the race were a result of frustration. There was a rush of adrenaline and emotions, and I don't necessarily stand by everything I said," Norris explained. "He doesn't need to apologize, and I don't expect one. It was intense racing, occasionally on the edge, but we have discussed it, and we are ready to compete again."

Verstappen, who received a penalty but managed to finish fifth, expanding his lead over Norris by 10 points, emphasized that maintaining his friendship with Norris was crucial. "The only thing that mattered to me was preserving my relationship with Lando because we are great friends," Verstappen asserted. "After the race, we agreed to let things cool down because emotions were running high. We spoke on Monday and concluded that we both thoroughly enjoyed our battle."

While both drivers are eager for another close fight at Silverstone, Verstappen made it clear that he would not compromise his driving style. "We go at it flat out; that's what we agreed upon, that's what we enjoy doing, and that's also what is good for F1," Verstappen stated. "Just like designing a car, you push the limits of the rules, maybe exploring some gray areas, and that's how you race. Otherwise, you won't become a top driver."

Norris echoed his McLaren team principal, Andrea Stella's sentiments regarding the incident in Austria. Stella unequivocally believed that Verstappen's driving style was emboldened by the lack of previous repercussions. "Andrea has a great deal of sensitivity in his remarks, and I definitely agree with certain aspects," Norris acknowledged. "On the whole, I concur with what Andrea said."

Reflecting on the collision that cost him the race, Norris expressed disappointment but acknowledged that he would need to adjust his approach when going wheel-to-wheel with Verstappen in the future. "It was a regrettable incident as it ended both of our races. It was a small amount of contact, but the consequences were severe for both of us," Norris lamented. "There are things I need to do differently, but he won't be changing too much."

Lewis Hamilton, who experienced Verstappen's contentious maneuvers during their battle for the 2021 world championship, declined to weigh in on the debate surrounding Verstappen's driving style at Silverstone.

As we head into the 12th round of the Formula One season, Verstappen holds an 81-point advantage over Norris in the world championship standings.