Thanks to Norris

part 42- media

You woke up early, the city still quiet outside your window. After a quick breakfast, you met up with your manager and headed to the circuit for media day. The paddock was already buzzing with activity—camera crews, reporters, and fellow drivers weaving between the rows of motorhomes and garages.

As soon as you arrived, you were swept into a series of interviews alongside various drivers. The questions came fast, covering everything from your preparations to your thoughts on the weekend ahead.

Inevitably, someone asked about last night's event—the teamwork challenge and the candid moments you shared with Lando.

You smiled, recalling the laughter and ease from just hours before. But then a thought struck you, reminding you of the fierce rivalry that still awaited on track.

Interviewer: "So, you and Lando seemed pretty tight last night. Has the dynamic changed with you becoming teammates?"

You took a breath, a half-smile playing on your lips.

You: "Yeah, last night was good—definitely nice to see that side of things. But out on track? That's a different story. When the lights go out, it's every driver for themselves. We'll be racing hard against each other, so I don't expect too many laughs there."

The room chuckled lightly, sensing the balance you were striking—respect off track, and fierce competition when it counted.

The rest of the morning passed in a blur of questions and photo ops, but that moment stayed with you. You knew the upcoming season would be a test—not just of speed, but of how well you and Lando could handle being teammates and rivals all at once.

As you wrapped up your last interview, your manager gave you a quick nod.

Manager: "Nice balance in that answer. Friendly, but keeps the edge."

You nodded, already gearing up mentally for what was next.

After your interview about last night's event, you were quickly ushered over to another set of reporters waiting with microphones and cameras. This time, you were joined by a few other drivers—each bringing their own vibe to the conversation.

Interviewer: "So, you've got Lewis, Lando, and now yourself all under one roof. How does that mix shake out in the team environment?"

You: "It's definitely going to be interesting. Lewis is a legend and a fierce competitor, Lando's got incredible talent and energy, and I'm just here to push both of them as much as they push me. It keeps everyone sharp."

Carlos Sainz, standing nearby, chuckled.

Carlos: "Sounds like a pretty intense household! I'm just glad I'm on the other team—less pressure, right?"

Everyone laughed, including you.

You: "Don't get too comfortable, Carlos. We'll see you on track."

Later, an interviewer turned to George Russell, who was sitting nearby.

Interviewer: "George, any thoughts on this new driver lineup shaking up the paddock?"

George smiled, relaxed.

George: "It's always exciting when new teammates bring fresh energy. The more competitive, the better the racing. I'm looking forward to seeing how it plays out, especially with those team dynamics."

You nodded in agreement.

You: "It definitely raises the stakes. But off track, it's about respect and working together to help the team succeed."