Verstappen receives 20-second penalty after clash with Norris at Mexico GP
MEXICO CITY -- Max Verstappen received two separate 10-second penalties following clashes with his championship rival, Lando Norris. These incidents cast a significant shadow over the race and possibly the title prospects for Verstappen.
During the 11th lap, a fierce battle ensued at Turn 4 with Norris, who appeared to gain the apex lead. However, Norris was subsequently forced off the circuit when Verstappen attempted a bold move to reclaim second position at Turn 8, pushing both drivers off the track.
"This guy is dangerous," Norris shared with his McLaren team immediately after the maneuver. "I just had to avoid a crash. It's the same as last time."
The race stewards conducted a thorough examination of both incidents. Following their assessment, they announced two 10-second penalties for the championship leader.
"Following the incident in Turn 4," the stewards detailed, "Verstappen attempted to pass Norris on the inside at Turn 8. Verstappen was ahead at the apex of Turn 8 and would have been entitled to racing room. However, he was not able to complete the maneuver on the track, left the track, and kept the lasting advantage, incidentally forcing Norris off the track. The penalty is the standard penalty for leaving the track and gaining a lasting advantage."
Verstappen's aggressive on-track tactics, which had already been a major talking point following similar moves at the U.S. Grand Prix, have sparked further controversy. With Verstappen holding a 57-point advantage over Norris going into the race, the penalties could dramatically impact his lead in the championship standings.
"And how about him then, Turn 4? That's fine then? That's silly man," Verstappen responded when informed about the second penalty.
He served the penalty during his first pitstop.
The penalties opened the door for Ferrari drivers Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc, who capitalized on the chaos to secure a comfortable one-two lead. The ramifications of this race are poised to significantly alter the dynamics of the title race, increasing the tension as the season progresses.
