As Lando Norris entered the Hungarian GP paddock, he was greeted with a cheeky reminder of England’s recent Euro 2024 football loss to Spain. Following the thrilling 2-1 victory by Spain, a prankster had altered a sign with Norris’ name to read, “2-1 VIVA España!!”
The internet buzzed with activity as a viral post on X (formerly known as Twitter) unveiled that the culprit behind this hilarious mischief was none other than Carlos Oñoro, who manages Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz. The two drivers share a history from their days racing together at McLaren between 2019 and 2020. Meanwhile, the other Spaniard on the F1 grid, Fernando Alonso, quickly distanced himself from the prank during a pre-race conference. When asked if he was involved, Alonso humorously redirected attention back to the Sainz camp, implying his innocence with a smile.
The timing of the prank was impeccable, coinciding with a weekend of celebration for Spain in the sporting arena. Not only did their national football team emerge victorious, but 21-year-old tennis sensation Carlos Alcaraz also clinched the Wimbledon title with a commanding win against Novak Djokovic. Alonso expressed pride in his countrymen, alluding to Spain’s strong tradition in tennis, having been led by Rafael Nadal for two decades, and now seeing Alcaraz continue the legacy. Alonso noted, “The whole country enjoyed it for sure.”
The mood in the race paddock was evidently influenced by these sporting triumphs, as success in football and tennis seemed to uplift spirits and boost camaraderie among the teams. With Norris leading the charge for British drivers in the F1 2024 standings, holding second place in the Drivers’ Championship with 171 points, the on-track rivalry between British and Spanish athletes continues to thrill fans. Sainz, with 146 points, and Alonso, with 45, trail behind Norris but remain formidable competitors.
Ultimately, this lighthearted prank at the Hungarian Grand Prix highlighted the friendly rivalries and camaraderie in the F1 paddock, reflecting the broader themes of competition and sportsmanship that transcend both motorsport and football. Lando Norris, despite being the target of the antics, continues to perform impressively on the racetrack, exemplifying the resilience and spirit of a true competitor.
