– Following the Mexican Grand Prix, Red Bull team principal Christian Horner argued that Max Verstappen’s two 10-second penalties were overly harsh. Citing data from Lando Norris’s performance, Horner sought to demonstrate that Verstappen’s actions did not warrant a penalty.

– Speaking to the media, Horner presented printed data, showing a comparison of Norris’s braking patterns on his fastest lap versus when he was battling Verstappen. Horner explained,

“He is 15 kph faster, and later on the brakes than his fastest lap of the Grand Prix. He wouldn’t have made the corner. He would have run off track. You can see from his onboard steering. At this point in the race, he’s got probably 80 kilos more fuel than at the point that he’s done his fastest lap.”

– Horner also questioned the current interpretation of overtaking rules, emphasizing the traditional advantage of the driver on the inside line:

“It used to be a reward of the bravest to go around the outside. I think we’re in danger of flipping the overtaking laws upside down where drivers will just try to get their nose ahead at the apex and then claim that they have to be given room on the exit. Every indoor karting circuit around the world, if you’ve got the inside line you control the corner.”

– Calling for clarity, Horner urged stewards and drivers to establish consistent guidelines:

“I think it’s really important that the driver stewards together with the drivers agree something that is sensible rather than what we’re getting.”

– While Norris ultimately finished P2, Verstappen could only manage P6 after serving his penalties.

landonorris

mclarenf1

maxverstappen

redbullracing

VIA: gpblog