Verstappen's penalties signal shift in F1 regulations, says Mercedes' Toto Wolff

Red Bull Racing/Red Bull Content Pool

Mexico GP: Verstappen penalties redefine F1 racing standards

Formula One stewards made a landmark decision during the Mexico City Grand Prix, penalizing Max Verstappen and setting a new precedent in racing regulations, according to Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff.

Verstappen, a triple world champion with Red Bull, received two 10-second penalties for pushing McLaren's Lando Norris off the track and gaining an advantage by going off track. This ruling marks a shift from a previous incident in Texas, where the stewards had sided with Verstappen against Norris.

Wolff believes this new interpretation of the rules will change future racing tactics, stating, "A driver like Max will always push the limits when the rules allow a certain style of racing. This new execution will change how everyone races."

Drivers now need to adapt to the stricter enforcement, with Wolff adding, "Braking late and forcing another car off the track while going off-track yourself is no longer allowed."

However, Red Bull boss Christian Horner disagreed, holding that the traditional racing principles, where having the inside line dictates the corner, should still apply. He urged for a balanced approach to rule enforcement to maintain the essence of motor racing.

This shift in penalties highlights an evolution in F1 rules, promising a different dynamic in future races.

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