The reason why a number of Formula 1 drivers were seen laughing during the Azerbaijan national anthem ahead of the Grand Prix has been revealed.
On Sunday afternoon, reigning world champion Max Verstappen produced yet another masterful display as he led from start to finish to win the Azerbaijan Grand Prix.
The Dutchman is now only 69 points adrift of championship leader Oscar Piastri, who had an afternoon to forget as he crashed during the opening lap.
Prior to the race, all 20 drivers gathered at the front of the grid for the national anthem.
Advert
As the national anthem of Azerbaijan was being played, the likes of Kimi Antonelli, Carlos Sainz, Lando Norris and George Russell were seen laughing.
Now, footage has gone viral on social media, which revealed the reason behind the F1 drivers' giggles.
As shown in the video, the young kid standing in front of Norris was belting out the national anthem passionately.
Norris' attention was caught and he was seen laughing alongside Russell and teammate Piastri.
One fan said on social media: "Also for everyone wondering why most drivers were laughing during the anthem... It's bc Lando's grid kid was belting his lungs out.
"Across from George and Lando, Kimi and Carlos spotted the kid as well."
Another tweeted: "One look between George and Lando and they would have been floored."
A third fan added: "George is gonna cry."
Someone else wrote: Kkimi trying not to laugh: challenge failed."
Can Max Verstappen win the F1 world title?
After the race, Verstappen was asked whether he could still win the world title.
The Dutchman replied: "Seven races to go and it’s still 69 points, it’s a lot.
"Basically, everything needs to go perfect from my side and then a bit of luck from their side I need as well. So it’s still very tough."
F1 will return in two week's time with the Singapore Grand Prix.
Topics: Formula 1
Marcus Chan