Norris is 'not in charge' as management halts inquiries.

      "Max is free to do as he wishes."

      Lando Norris was interrupted by his own management team during a newspaper interview, despite the reigning world champion claiming he was ready to speak freely. The incident, reported by the Guardian’s Donald McRae, occurred as it became known that the McLaren driver had won the Laureus Breakthrough of the Year award.

      As the conversation progressed, McRae noted that a member of Norris’s management began responding to questions on his behalf, while a voice on a phone suddenly interrupted to prevent discussion about the Formula 1's 2026 regulations. A representative present also intruded to completely halt the dialogue, stating, "We’re done with time," while moving closer as the questions persisted.

      When Norris expressed his willingness to answer, he was dismissed. "I’m happy to answer that question," remarked the 26-year-old Briton. "No," came the swift reply from a representative. Norris then confessed, "I’m not the boss." At one point, he even challenged the interjections: "Why? Just say yes."

      McRae described the situation as "muzzling," highlighting that it was at odds with Norris’s generally open and thoughtful nature. Even simple inquiries were stifled, such as when Norris was posed a question about Max Verstappen and speculation surrounding the Dutch driver’s future. "I’ve no idea," Norris replied. "Max can do whatever he likes."

      However, the conversation took a comedic turn when a member of his management team interjected: "He (Max) is an amazing guy. Max is the best person ever and we love him. Quote."

      Despite the bizarre constraints, Norris reminisced about his championship victory. "Last year was very special as there are only 35 world champions in Formula 1 - ever. For me to be added to that list is pretty incredible," he shared.

      Nonetheless, the interview ultimately conveyed a different impression. "The troubling fact," McRae concluded, "is that an admirable world champion has to be managed in this manner."