'Not Seen Anything Like That Since Brazil': Russell Reacts To Verstappen's Move On Norris

Tuesday, 29 October 2024 at 11:30

Mercedes F1 driver George Russell discussed two incidents with Lando Norris for which Max Verstappen received two ten-second penalties.

Max Verstappen crossed the finish line in Mexico City 59.558 behind the race winner - Carlos Sainz. However, 20 seconds of that can be attributed to the two penalties that he received after lap number 10.

The stewards first gave the Dutchman a penalty for pushing another driver (Lando Norris) off the track in turn number 4. They later gave him another penalty for leaving the track and gaining an advantage in turn number 7.

Speaking to the media after the race, Norris said he hoped Verstappen acknowledges that he went over the line this time. The triple World Champion himself wouldn't comment on any of the penalties.

Also, speaking to the media at Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez after the Grand Prix, George Russell started by noting that he enjoyed the battles that he had with his teammate. In contrast, he suggested Verstappen went too far with the incident in turn number 7.

"It was nice to have the battle. It's always good when you fight with Lewis because it's hard and fair, and at the moment, we've seen a number of maneuvers that are just getting beyond entertainment, or beyond sort of sportsmanship, almost unfair to a point now."

Read also

Lawson Apologizes And Explains Why He Showed Middle Finger To Perez During Grand Prix

"You can argue the first one (turn number 4) was, again, maybe 60-40. The last one (turn number 7), it was… I've not seen anything like that since, probably Brazil."

Following the controversial battle between Verstappen and Norris in Austin, F1 drivers discussed potential changes in rules, and Russell revealed that 19 out of 20 voted they wanted this change implemented right away.

"I think the stewards are totally on board with what needs to change. Our view is, I think the biggest discussion is they wanted to wait until '25, so it's something consistent through this year."

"I would say 19 out of 20 drivers said, 'Well, if it's incorrect, make the change today.' And I'm glad to see those incidents were punished, and I suspect moving forward in Brazil, what we saw today and what we saw last week, you won't be able to get away with."