Norris: no apology needed from Verstappen after Austrian GP crash

Red Bull Racing/Red Bull Content Pool

Max Verstappen doesn't need to apologize for their collision at the Austrian Grand Prix - Lando Norris.

SILVERSTONE, ENGLAND – Lando Norris believes there is no requirement for Max Verstappen to apologize for their collision at the Austrian Grand Prix, citing his own overreaction in post-race comments.

Norris and Verstappen came together in a dramatic battle for the lead at the Red Bull Ring, causing both cars significant damage and resulting in Norris’s early retirement from the race. The aftermath saw Verstappen given a 10-second penalty after the stewards deemed him "predominantly to blame" for the incident. An understandably emotional Norris labeled Verstappen's actions as "desperate," "stupid," and "reckless."

However, ahead of the British Grand Prix, Norris extended an olive branch by stating their relationship remains strong. "Honestly, I don't think he needed to apologise. I think some of the things I said in the pen after the race was more because I was frustrated at the time," Norris admitted.

Describing the emotional intensity following the race, Norris explained, "A lot of adrenaline and emotions, and I probably said some things I didn't necessarily believe in, especially later on in the week. It was tough."

Norris further remarked on the minor nature of the collision and the substantial consequences that followed, affecting both drivers significantly. "It was probably one of the smallest bits of contact you can have, but with a pretty terrible consequence for both of us, especially for myself."

Norris emphasized that he does not expect or require an apology from Verstappen. Their post-collision discussions have resolved any lingering issues: "I don't expect an apology from him, I don't think he should apologize."

Reflecting on the incident and its broader implications, Norris expressed the need for some aspects of racing to have more clarity but maintained that the core of their battle was enjoyable. "The more I've thought about things, the more I have thought a lot of it was just racing."

While acknowledging the emotions that drive immediate reactions on the radio, Norris insisted that such tough and close racing was what both drivers and fans desired. "Yes, it was tough, and at times it went a bit too far, but it was good and it's what people wanted to see."

Recalling the series of attempts he made to pass Verstappen, Norris detailed the intricate maneuvers, especially the contentious move on Lap 55. "Max isn't going to want to crash, he's not going to want to ruin his own race or his own chances."

Norris conceded that both drivers could have acted differently to avoid the collision, pinpointing moving under braking as a significant area for the FIA to address. "Moving under braking, which was particularly apparent on Lap 55, should be the area of focus for the governing body and its stewards."

Norris expressed his readiness to continue aggressive racing while urging the FIA to clarify certain boundaries. "At a certain point, you're defending, you're being aggressive, and that's OK. But there'll be a point when there is a limit, and I think that just needs to be defined in a slightly better way."

Asked about Verstappen's racing style, Norris acknowledged its toughness and the excitement it brings to the sport: "It's clear how he races. It's tough, it's on the limit. And yeah, I think it's what we love, it's what I love."

With the British Grand Prix on the horizon, Norris remains keen on another thrilling showdown. "I'm excited to go racing again this weekend," he concluded.

Stay tuned for more updates from the British Grand Prix, where the drama and intensity of Formula 1 racing continue to captivate fans worldwide.

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