Norris: Verstappen ‘Knows Deep Down’ He Crossed the Line"

“Norris: Verstappen ‘Knows Deep Down’ He Crossed the Line”

McLaren driver Lando Norris believes Max Verstappen realizes he was at fault in their recent on-track skirmish during the Mexico City Grand Prix. The Red Bull driver was handed two 10-second penalties after a hard-fought battle with Norris, sparking fresh discussions around Formula 1’s racing rules and driver responsibilities.

Reflecting on the incident, Norris commented, “Max knows what he has to do. He knows he did wrong; deep down, he does. And it’s for him to change, not me.” Praising Verstappen’s skill, Norris added, “Max is one of the most capable drivers on the grid, if not the most. He knows the limits, and he knows what he can and can’t do.”

However, Verstappen voiced his frustration with F1’s current rulebook, which he feels is becoming overly complex. The Red Bull driver suggested that regulations are making racing unnecessarily restrictive. “It’s not straightforward; sometimes the penalties work for you, sometimes against you,” Verstappen said. “In general, the rulebook is only getting bigger every year, and I don’t think that’s always the right way.”

Verstappen also hinted that he relies on advice from a close, objective circle rather than outsiders who might “stir things up.” He expressed frustration with what he sees as inconsistent enforcement of rules, referencing an incident where he was fined for swearing in a press conference at the Singapore Grand Prix, while a similar instance involving Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc in Mexico was ignored. “After the race, someone was swearing, and I didn’t hear anything [about it],” Verstappen noted.

Looking ahead, Verstappen might face a five-place grid penalty in Sunday’s race if he takes on a new engine, which would exceed his allocation for the season. However, Red Bull has not officially commented on the potential penalty, and Verstappen himself stated, “I haven’t heard anything yet. I know I will have to take one at some point, so we’ll see.”

The debate over regulations and penalties adds a new layer to the championship battle, as drivers and teams continue to navigate F1’s intricate rules in pursuit of victory.