Lando Norris sparks debate over Coca-Cola consumption at Spanish Grand Prix

McLaren driver Lando Norris sparked debate following the Spanish Grand Prix after being told to put away a can of Coca-Cola in the cool-down room. The incident occurred after Norris finished third in the race. When an official requested he put the drink away, Norris responded, “I’ve just driven a race, so I can drink whatever I like. Thank you very much.”

The exchange has gained significant attention because Formula 1 maintains an official partnership with PepsiCo, the primary rival of Coca-Cola. While Coca-Cola is a sponsor of McLaren, it is not an official F1 partner.

Former Haas F1 principal Guenther Steiner criticized the driver's actions on his podcast, The Red Flags, stating that a professional should know what is and is not allowed. Steiner noted that while the incident was not harmful, it was not the “smartest” move given the existing commercial categories. Conversely, the driver's blunt response has been widely praised by fans on social media.